Interpreters should begin from the visitor’s question, not their own message

Evidence

Probably the most common error in creating interpretive matter of all kinds derives from the fact that the writer has in mind the question : “What is it I wish to say?” It is of no importance whatever, as yet, what I wish to say. I have not reached that point. The important thing is: What would the prospective reader wish to read? And what can I say in brief, inspiring, and luring terms about this area in language that he will readily comprehend? — Freeman Tilden, Interpreting Our Heritage, 381

Categorization

• XREF: connects to: Expert interpreters must cultivate humility toward non-expert visitors — Freeman Tilden, Interpreting Our Heritage, 329; Interpretation’s business is provoking desire to know, not instructing — Freeman Tilden, Interpreting Our Heritage, 675; Interviewers probed indirectly rather than asking subjects directly about sensitive topics — John T. Jost and Jim Sidanius, Political Psychology, 502 (+1 more)

Broader Connections

• People answer what they think a question means, not what is literally asked #corroborates (0.82) — Antonio Gramsci, Selections from the Prison Notebooks, 2542
• Interpretation’s business is provoking desire to know, not instructing #expands (0.75) — Freeman Tilden, Interpreting Our Heritage, 675
• Interviewers probed indirectly rather than asking subjects directly about sensitive topics #exemplifies (0.72) — John T. Jost and Jim Sidanius, Political Psychology, 502