Primers

A primer is a book that covers the basic elements of a subject. A reading primer would start with the abc's and present basic short, simple sentences. A math primer would begin with addition and subtraction of small numbers.
I consider kata to be primers. The early kata introduce the most basic techniques in a non-complicated short form. Even the most advanced kata use the same abc's but in a more complicated and dynamic fashion.
The more experienced practitioners will use all the kata as launching pads to further study what I call the art of movement. Ebb and flow, soft and hard, center lines, placement, diversion, impact, mass, speed, body-part dynamics, application, etc.,etc.
So, don't just read the primer and put it down. Explore it. Dissect it. The simple primer can be a master piece.
But please remember, the primers/katas are all-important and shouldn't be altered even if you think you have found a better way to execute a technique, as undoubtedly you will. Those just beginning the martial arts and those learning new kata need to learn them the same way you did, i.e. this move is attached to this move is attached to this move, etc.
I think a good rule of thumb is, when teaching, be dogmatic. The kata is taught as Master Rhee put them down years ago on the videos. However, when demonstrating, bring out the Art of Martial Arts. Read between the lines and demonstrate from between the moves.
SUN!