Speaker: Like many contemporary critics, Smith argues that the true meaning of an author's statements can be understood only through insight into the author's social circumstances.
Evidence
The true meaning of an author’s TM → IASC statements can be understood only through insight into the author’s social circumstances.
Conclusion
Smith herself is not aware of ~TM the true meaning of her own words.
Evaluate
The speaker assumes that ~IASC Smith herself lacks insight into the her own social circumstances.