Yes! Art is not the sole property of the artist. What art means to each of us can and must vary, the experience metaphorically shimmering in a mystical space between the artist and the art lover.

When I was a closeted little gay kid, I turned to sci-fi novels for both escape and to try to understand how society could be better. Now, decades later, I understand some of the art has problems. One book in particular that have me a great deal of comfort is actually pretty darn sexist. When I re-read it not too long ago, several passages stuck out and bothered me.

But I didn't see them, or I didn't see them clearly, when I was 13. Despite the flaws, the meaning of the art I received was overwhelmingly positive.

Oh, and hey ... speaking of the Wizarding world, my gay partner and I fostered a boy starting when he had just turned 14 years old. He came from an abusive background and had quite a few challenges. When he read the Harry Potter novels, starting before they were even all written, he saw himself in them. He saw our home as a sort of Hogwarts. He saw the possibility of becoming safer, stronger, more positive and loving.

He's not queer, and the art that resonated inside him was his own special, individual experience that spoke to his life and needs.

And isn't that just how art works?