Founder's Journal Imitate, Then Innovate
Feb 19, 2024
David Perell, founder of Write of Passage, delves into the importance of imitation in creativity, why originality stems from imitation, and the balance between imitation and innovation. He discusses the 'originality disease,' the role of ego in creativity, and how imitation can lead to innovation in entrepreneurship.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Ego Drives Originality Desire
- The desire for originality often stems from ego, seeking respect through being seen as inventive.
- Success is more about copying well than creating something entirely new, as exemplified by Morning Brew's approach.
Famous Innovators Imitate First
- Quentin Tarantino's originality began with imitation, famously stealing scenes from his own past films.
- Steve Jobs drew from existing ideas, like Star Trek designs, showing innovation often builds on imitation.
The Originality Disease Explained
- The "originality disease" makes creators fear imitation, thinking inspiration must come from nowhere.
- This fear leads to avoiding influences, hampering creativity and progress.