Writing Excuses Writing Excuses 4.18: How to Steal for Fun and Profit
May 10, 2010
Dive into the art of creative borrowing as the hosts discuss how inspiration from history, mythology, and pop culture can fuel originality. They explore the fine line between homage and plagiarism, using examples from 'Avatar' and Neil Gaiman's work. The conversation highlights fairy tale retellings and music sampling as forms of artistic influence. Listeners are encouraged to merge existing ideas, with exciting prompts to spark unique storytelling. Embrace your influences while crafting your distinct voice!
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Artists Transform Influences Creatively
- Good artists incorporate and transform their influences into something new and personal.
- Actively searching to use history, mythology, and real experiences enriches your writing authentically.
Creating Martial Art From Parkour
- Dan Wells created Parkada Urbatsu, a martial art inspired by seeing parkour in the James Bond movie Casino Royale.
- He studied parkour culture online and combined it with martial arts training for a fresh concept.
Make Borrowed Ideas Your Own
- Avoid plagiarism by making borrowed elements truly your own with original changes and fresh context.
- Use history and mythology for influence rather than just pop culture to reduce risks of copying.
