Tom Stoppard rewrites Shakespeare's Hamlet from the perspective of Rosencrantz and Guildenstern, turning a tragedy into a tragi-comedy. This switch in perspectives creates a completely different narrative, highlighting the subjective nature of storytelling.
 

Real-world Example: Think of two people witnessing the same event, but due to their unique perspectives, their accounts of the event can significantly differ.
 

Note

• How are Rosencrantz and Guildenstern characterized? What sets them apart?
• How does the element of chance or luck contribute to the play's overall confusion and humor?

Liz Phair's "Help Me Mary" is a response to The Rolling Stones' "Rip This Joint". The two songs provide different gender perspectives on rock and roll - a predominantly male-dominated genre.

Real-world Example: Imagine a debate where two sides present different perspectives on the same topic. It's similar to how Phair and The Rolling Stones discuss gender in music.

Questions

• How do gender presentations differ in the two songs?
• How does Phair's song respond to The Rolling Stones?

In 2015, Ryan Adams covered Taylor Swift's entire album '1989'. Covers are often debated over their faithfulness to the original. They can be seen as translations or responses to the original work.

Real-world Example: Think of a remake of a classic movie. Is it better when it's true to the original or when it adds a unique twist?

Discussion points

• What elements differ between the original and the cover? Which do you prefer and why?
• Can the cover be considered original in its own right?

Sampling involves reusing a portion of a sound recording in another recording, extending the original into new territories. It's another form of intertextuality in music.

Real-world Example: A DJ mixing different songs to create a new track - that's sampling!

Questions

• How does sampling link to Lethem's thoughts on reference?
• How can sampling make a text original?