There is a tacit assumption that interpretation comes naturally, that human beings live by constantly interpreting. In this sense, we might even rephrase Descartes by saying: We interpret, therefore we are. While such a basic human disposition makes interpretation appear to come naturally, the forms[...]

Iser examines what happens during the reading process, and how it is basic to the development of a theory of aesthetic response, setting in motion a chain of events that depends both on the text and the exercise of certain human faculties.[...]

This book is the first in-depth monograph on one of the most celebrated German literary theoristsof the 20th century. Via an accessible analysis of Iser's complete English and German writings, this study explains his acclaimed reception theory and connects the famous notions of 'blanks' and the 'imp[...]

"An important transitional book, usefully summarizing the past and thoughtfully mapping out the future of a significant critic's theoretical project." -- Modern Philology."There is a much greater emphasis on the reader's function as 'performer' of the text in Prospecting than in Iser's other books. [...]