The example with the frog pond is perfect. For instance, anything that is commonly perceived as disgusting or commonly feared, etc. will, when interpreting something, like a piece of art, be considered through its common interpretation (unless the creator's associations are known, and cared for or considered).
The same mix up is also made when interpreting dreams. Looking at general symbolism, instead of one's own.

The more someone is a classic representative of the species, the more clearly even their individual symbolism will be perceived by the interpreters.
This, of course, also presents a unique challenge.