The Myth of Originality: How to Embrace Influence and Create Something New

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In our fast-paced world, we often come across the phrase “Be Original.” It’s a mantra heard in every industry, profession, and even in our day-to-day lives. But what does it truly mean to be original? Does originality even exist?

According to the venerable Wikipedia, originality is defined as, “An original work is one not received from others nor one copied from or based upon the work of others.” While this definition may seem straightforward, I have come to question its accuracy.

Consider this: when people refer to something as “original,” more often than not, they are simply unaware of the references and sources that have influenced its creation. Let’s take, for example, watching a video. The ideas presented in that video are a culmination of various sources, each of which has drawn inspiration from different origins. It’s like a beautifully crafted mashup of previous ideas, which gives it the illusion of being “ORIGINAL.”

An illustrative case in point is Instagram. This popular social media platform, which has revolutionized the way we share moments and connect with others, is not entirely original in its concept. It has borrowed ideas from other social media apps and creatively combined them to offer a unique user experience. Instagram’s success lies in its ability to curate and innovate, bringing together existing ideas in a way that feels fresh and original.

Interestingly, even The Bible acknowledges this phenomenon. In the book of Ecclesiastes, chapter 1, verse 9, it states,

“There is nothing new under the sun.”

This thought-provoking passage might initially seem disheartening, but there is a positive side to it.

When we release ourselves from the burden of striving for absolute originality, we open the doors to embracing influence. Instead of constantly chasing the elusive goal of creating something from nothing, we can acknowledge the power of inspiration. By allowing ourselves to be influenced by others’ work, we tap into a vast well of knowledge and creativity.

However, it is crucial to note that embracing influence does not mean resorting to plagiarism. Plagiarism involves claiming someone else’s work as your own, which is unethical and unacceptable. Instead, what we can do is copy, but with a distinction. Copying, in this context, is akin to reverse engineering. We delve into existing work, seeking to understand its essence, and then infuse it with our unique values, opinions, and perspectives to create something new and transformative.

In this process, we build upon the foundation laid by those who came before us. We pay homage to the creative trailblazers who have inspired us while infusing our own innovative touch. It’s about finding the delicate balance between respecting the work of others and adding our distinct voice to the conversation.

So, the next time you find yourself grappling with the idea of originality, remember that true creativity often stems from embracing influence rather than shunning it. Allow yourself to be inspired, explore the ideas that captivate you, and contribute your unique perspective to the ever-evolving tapestry of human creation. By doing so, you become a part of the ongoing narrative of innovation and artistic expression that defines our world.