Every creative feels like a fraud at some point–because nothing is new. Every idea is built on previous ideas.
“All men are frauds. The only difference between them is that some admit it. I myself deny it.” – H. L. Mencken
We all create based on the inspiration around us. One idea feeds into another. To think that ideas can be completely original is a bit arrogant. Even though it isn’t copying, every idea is inspired by things we see and experience.
Creativity is about funneling those experiences into something. We pour out our unique set of experiences and create something new. When we realize that every artistic expression is inspired by those before it we can be bold. Creativity is no longer something that has to be toiled over. It’s something that’s all around us. It’s for us to use and make our own.
Be creative. Don’t copy. But don’t stress about looking like others. There’s more you in your art than you may see.
As a young musician I was constantly obsessed with tying to create something new that it stifled my creative process greatly. Once I accepted that it was ok (and actually really good) to allow your influences to be a part of it I have been much more inspired.
Good stuff!
Great example! 🙂
As a young musician I was constantly obsessed with tying to create something new that it stifled my creative process greatly. Once I accepted that it was ok (and actually really good) to allow your influences to be a part of it I have been much more inspired.
Good stuff!
Great example! 🙂
this post saved me from my lifelong question-slash-fear of “what if there’s nothing else new?”
thanks, man. this literally blew my mind!
i’m glad! 🙂
this post saved me from my lifelong question-slash-fear of “what if there’s nothing else new?”
thanks, man. this literally blew my mind!
i’m glad! 🙂
Jonathan, love this post, and love the quote at the top. There’s nothing new under the sun.
Exactly! 🙂
Jonathan, love this post, and love the quote at the top. There’s nothing new under the sun.
Exactly! 🙂
Needed this, it takes a lot of pressure off, which totally helps free up the creativity process! Thanks for this post.
Needed this, it takes a lot of pressure off, which totally helps free up the creativity process! Thanks for this post.