Responses of four people to the book "Future Shock" are analyzed in relation to Erik Erikson's theory of personality. Results were interpreted as support for Erickson's theory and as illustration of how people interpret written language in terms of their own situations and life histories. In general, adults applied more detached and objective interpretations and sought meanings relative to a wider society. Adolescent responses tended to be more subjective and egocentric. Implications for reading instruction are briefly discussed. (AA)