Personal interpretation refers to the unique way individuals understand and make sense of information, experiences, or art. This process is influenced by a person's background, beliefs, emotions, and prior knowledge. For example, when viewing a painting by Vincent van Gogh, one person might focus on the vibrant colors, while another might feel a sense of sadness from the subject matter. In literature, personal interpretation plays a significant role in how readers engage with a text. Each reader brings their own perspective, which can lead to different meanings and insights from the same story. This subjectivity is what makes discussions about works like Shakespeare's plays rich and varied.