They say that imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, but I’m positive that this saying originated from someone who copies and not someone who creates. There is a world of difference between inspiration and creative plagiarism. When someone is inspired, the inspiration flows through their work to create something new, adding to the narrative. You can see a polite and respectful nod to the original creator, but the work is distinctly their own. But when someone copies, all you see is a weaker, diluted version of the original idea.
As a creative, I have two distinct reactions to someone who intentionally copies another’s work or style and passes it off as their own. My first reaction is always disappointment, followed closely by sadness. My second, stronger, reaction is anger.…
