[Vocabulary] Inform interpretation

[Cynthia Garett]

Hi,

I would like to know what "inform interpretation" means here.

"Just as the cultural context of a novel can inform interpretations, so too can familiariaty with the historical backdrop of the composer's work - Beethoven's Ninth, which celebrates the unity between mankind, was written during a factious time for Europe."

Thank you

 

[riquecohen]

Substitute "influence" for "inform" and I think you will get the idea.