One demands a little originality in these days, even from…
““One demands a little originality in these days, even from murderers," said Lady Swaffham. "Like dramatists, you know--so much easier in Shakespeare's time, wasn't it? Always the same girl dressed up as a man, and even that borrowed from Boccaccio or Dante or somebody. I'm sure if I'd been a Shakespeare hero, the very minute I saw a slim-legged young page-boy I'd have said: 'Ods bodikins! There's that girl again!””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Originality is scarce even among villains; Shakespeare’s tropes are overused, making fresh ideas hard to find.
In simple terms: Even murderers need new twists; Shakespeare’s formulas dominate.
Key Takeaway
Seek fresh perspectives, avoid clichés.
Themes
originality
literature
creativity
Mood
playful
critical
Type
literary
satirical
When to use this quote
- writing
- theatre
- adaptations
- creative brainstorming
Key Concepts
intertextuality
genre conventions
Questions to Reflect On
- How can writers break free from classic tropes?
- What role does audience familiarity play in originality?
A Different Perspective
Originality can be limited by audience expectations and market pressures.