Creativity Quote by Dorothy L. Sayers
““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
Source Novel: The Nine Tailors by Dorothy L. Sayers, 1934
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.
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