Because certainly there is a theory that art's main function is to provide succor and solace in this "vail of tears". -Right.

因为确实有一种理论认为艺术的主要,功能是提供帮助与安慰,因为世界纷繁而痛苦，-对的。

普林斯顿公开课 - 人性课程节选

But it's not a complete theory until we specify the utility function.

但我们还未详细分析效应函数,这还不是完整的理论

耶鲁公开课 - 金融市场课程节选

What we're talking about is literariness--that is to say, certain devices that we can identify that perform a certain function -and maybe out of the identification of these devices, to evolve a theory that's more widespread.

我们谈的是文学性，是一种我们能够认知并运用来达到一定目的的策略,我们需要进一步发展这个策略，使这个理论进化并传播。

耶鲁公开课 - 文学理论导论课程节选