Introduction:-

The debate surrounding originality and imitation often ignites passionate discussions, as my friends experienced recently. One championed the idea that true originality is the key to success, while the other argued that nothing is genuinely original. This discourse highlights a fundamental truth about creativity: that inspiration and imitation are woven into the fabric of human experience. In a world teeming with similarities, the challenge lies not in avoiding imitation but in transforming it into a unique expression of oneself. 


The Argument on Originality vs. Imitation-:

Yesterday, my two friends were arguing very strongly about imitation. One was of the view that "originality will make you at the apex of life," while the other was steadfast in his statement that "nothing is original in this world." Both sounded very rational in their points of view. It seemed that the argument would not come to an end until someone stopped them and could throw light on the topic in such a different way that it would be enough to catch their attention. At the same time, fortunately, the other one received a call from her mother, who instructed her to reach home soon, so the discussion ended. For instance, in the world of music, many artists have drawn inspiration from earlier genres or songs, like how Lizzo incorporates elements of classic R&B while adding her own unique spin. 


The Nature of Originality-:

This argument compels me to accept that originality does not exist; it only exists in our minds and not on the ground of reality. Many times, it has been noticed that there are many similar things that people generally choose to do, but the ratio of success depends on how authentically and differently those things have been done. For example, countless books have been written about love, yet each author brings their own narrative style and perspective, making their work feel fresh and original. If an individual tries to copy or steal ideas, this should directly appeal to his soul because creativity exists there. It paves the way for authenticity, which is invaluable. Authenticity may save you from allegations of thievery or copying. It is not very important where you have drawn inspiration for a specific idea or thing; the importance lies in how it has been brought to the forefront, allowing the work to speak for itself. After that, there will be no need to conceal anything from anyone.


Understanding Imitation-:

Whenever a person gets inspired by the outstanding work of others, it's not a big deal. First of all, you have to perceive the whole concept logically. Otherwise, it could create an illusion that will not only unmask you but also push you into a puddle of uncertainty. For example, if a budding artist merely copies famous paintings instead of trying to understand their techniques and meanings, they might feel lost when trying to create their own work. In this situation, even your inner voice may become inaudible. Don't ever let imitation swallow your authenticity; it can ruin your vision of being authentic, especially when you select a comparable task to fulfill. It is believed that imitation is an instinct for all living beings. Many times, it has been seen that imitation is the instinct that animals use as a way to learn. Research shows that those animals that get separated or left behind in the developing stage suffer substantially in the absence of various necessary survival techniques.


The Role of Imitation in Learning-:

Young babies suffer higher mortality rates in comparison to those who stay with their mothers and learn most of the essential survival techniques by imitating them. For instance, children learn how to speak by mimicking their parents’ words and sounds, gradually developing their vocabulary and communication skills. Therefore, it can easily be seen that if new born get separated, they suffer a lot in adapting to their natural habitat. Imitation is natural; it is part of human nature. We usually learn a lot by imitating our parents. It has been noticed how a child keeps repeating the same words or small phrases he hears from the elders around him. Sometimes, he imitates his parents' way of walking and talking as well. Nobody can ever deny the fact that whether it is humans or animals, imitation plays a big role. Therefore, young babies to grown-ups instinctively imitate their peers. While walking in a group, they always like to follow their leader.


Smart Imitation for Creativity-:

If one smart trick or process is found, it is undoubtedly imitated by others without much hustle. I would like to draw your attention to the fact that it is not very important how you imitate others. For example, tech companies often take inspiration from one another, like how smartphone designs have evolved to resemble each other yet still maintain uniqueness in branding. The importance of imitation lies in how smartly you do it. We should always keep a simple rule of imitation in mind: the more things are done smartly, the more creative and original you will be. Ultimately, finding a balance between drawing inspiration and nurturing our own creativity will lead to innovation that stands the test of time.



Conclusion:-

In conclusion, while imitation is an inherent part of our learning process, the essence of true creativity lies in how we transform inspiration into authenticity. Embracing our influences and learning from them can guide us toward crafting something uniquely ours. The art of imitation, when approached thoughtfully, becomes a stepping stone to genuine innovation rather than mere replication. Ultimately, the journey toward originality is not about rejecting all influences but about honouring them through our distinct voices and perspectives, ensuring that our work resonates with authenticity.