After I read this chapter, I think the author defined that language is used to express and impart meaning, and it is not pre-existing, even though language has existed for a long time. In fact, the meaning of language existence is given by human beings with various meanings, which makes the language have the necessary meaning. I think literature is not only about reading words, but also about what information and emotions the author want to convey to readers. Because just reading the text is rigid and without any emotion. In this chapter, as Culler mentions, that meaning should not be determined by words. As a conventional symbol, language has certain limitations on the author’s way of expression and the reader’s own understanding ability, so the thinking and imagination are limited by the rigidity of language. In my opinion, when reading literary works, the most important thing is how to analyze the author’s situation and views, because, without it, different meanings may be transmitted to readers and cause misunderstanding. For example, a good lecture in a university is more likely to elicit a positive reaction from the audience. However, it is normal to say that the audience may have different views on the same class because their understanding and opinions will be different. I think that just like commenting on a writer, readers have their own educational level, life experience, and values, which shape their unique personality, which makes a language have different meanings for them. For those of us who are a second language, reading some English books has different views because of the different educational concepts. Comparatively speaking, it is different from people who are English as a first language. Therefore, I think reading is like an unknown secret waiting to be explored and discovered. There will be resonance and opposition. We should not limit our thoughts and opinions so that whenever we read a book, we feel that the text is as fresh as ever. I think that’s the meaning of reading.

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