Artistic hypocrisy

Many times I come across texts or videos made by people from the world of music and art who are somewhat pompously preaching about the importance of being “original”, especially nowadays. Ironically, the same often quote the cliched though truthful thought: “we are all standing on the shoulders of giants”. True, you simply cannot ignore the artistic legacy nor all of those who’ve paved the path now being followed by their successors. It is virtually impossible not to be under the influence of the past, even if you’re stubbornly determined to go against the flow. You can (try to) do this in many ways: by creating music that is all but unlistenable, by deliberately trying to defy the rules of aesthetics, and finally with an “unconventional” attitude or act. However, it is equally legitimate to be inspired and motivated by the work of somebody else. This doesn’t necessarily mean that you should copy them in a literal sense, but nurturing a similar style of expression is not a crime (at least, it shouldn’t be). Despite the potential likeness, every person will inevitably bring their own individuality into the picture and with that, a certain degree of originality. After all, it’s often better trying to follow a well-trodden path than reinventing the wheel while struggling to be different at any cost.

Personally, I think that expecting a modern artist to bring something entirely new to the table - something that hasn’t already been seen or heard before in some form or another - is pretty unrealistic. However, this is not what art should be about, despite rantings of those who are constantly advocating pushing the limits and such. As I’ve written many times before, as selfishly and egotistical as this might sound, true artists create art primarily for themselves - driven by the sense of fulfillment and joy that comes from doing creative work. Many would sentimentally say that they’re creating purely for others’ sake. Of course, there is nothing as beautiful as to actually move someone with your creations, though it’s a bit hypocritical to deny your basic creative instincts in the process. It is often more sincere to openly admit that you’re making music while hoping to get “rich and famous” one day or while thinking about the legacy you would leave behind.

It really boils down to love. Love toward what you do and create. If you are truly enjoying it, it doesn’t matter how “original” you are (or not).