Skip to content

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.” quote by Marianne Moore
Download Open image
““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.””

Marianne Moore

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.

Key Takeaway

Seek originality.

Themes

art derivation understanding

Mood

reflective analytical

Type

literary philosophical

When to use this quote

  • creative writing
  • education
  • media criticism

Key Concepts

aesthetics philosophy

Questions to Reflect On

  • What makes art understandable?
  • When does imitation become homage?
A Different Perspective

Originality can be subjective.

3.2 out of 5 (5 ratings)

More by Marianne Moore

Explore all 134 Marianne Moore quotes

More Derivative quotes

Browse all 37 Derivative quotes