It is interesting to read about how the 7th symphony got started and its interpretation. I am reading the book "Listen To The Music A Self-Guided Tour Through the Orchestral Repertoire" by Jonathan D. Kramer. The symphony was written in 1941 and planned before the German attack, it cannot be said that it was a reaction to the attack. However, since it was a work in progress during the Nazi attack, you can't say that this did not have a substantial influence on the score.
What is more fascinating is Shostakovitch's interpretation of the score. While the symphony was still very new he discusses the various movements and states that he tries to give an emotional image of war. Many years later Shostakovitch indicated a much different interpretation to this piece, he states it was planned before Hitler's attack and that the invasion theme had nothing to do with him. He states that I "Shostakovitch" suffered for everyone who suffers or was tortured. He further indicates that he does not mind calling the seventh the Leningrad Symphony, but it is not about Leningrad under siege; it is about the Leningrad that Stalin destroyed and that Hitler merely finished off.
It really makes you wonder how "free" Shostakovitch was in his statements or if he was merely stating something the government would approve of, remember that he was denounced twice in his life by the government.
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