Derivative Quote by Marianne Moore
““When they become so derivative as to become unintelligible, the same thing may be said for all of us, that we do not admire what we cannot understand.””
About This Quote
Source Poem: “The Fish” 1921
When art becomes derivative, it loses meaning, and we stop admiring what we cannot understand.
In simple terms: Derivative art loses meaning.
Seek originality.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- creative writing
- education
- media criticism
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What makes art understandable?
- When does imitation become homage?
Originality can be subjective.