I think it is nearly impossible to understand why someone else is drawn to a particular theme or object, because it is so abstract.
For instance, I have a recurring dream about alligators. To me it is obvious the alligator represents anxiety that I have struggled with throughout my life, but of course I know my inner-workings. I find the same thing happens with things in my waking life. Certain ideals I value appear in symbols.
And I totally agree you see the truth when reading between the lines in someone's writing. Although we certainly can be crafty and put on personas at times.
I think so, too. I mean, I'm having trouble understanding myself sometimes, let alone others, and you're right. What one idea or symbol means to me might mean something completely different to you and so on. I can't assume why someone's drawn to something based on my perception of the thing.
Sometimes, true. There are a lot of users here trying to sound different, to sound like someone else and often, it's obvious, if you keep a critical view, which I try to do. And the fact they would want to sound like someone they're not is very telling.
Understanding ourselves must be the ultimate meaning of life. It seems like it takes a long time to figure us out :)
Agreed, most people are not so good at doing personas. A handful can though. I wonder how often people are thought to be putting on a front, when they are just showing alternate sides. My posts can be pretty scattered as far as my style. I like it that way. Split personalities keep life interesting ;)