Creativity Quote by Nicholas Delbanco
“My notion of a failed writing workshop is when everybody comes out replicating the teacher and imitating as closely as possible the great original at the head of the table. I think that's a mistake, in obvious opposition to the ideal of teaching which permits a student to be someone other than the teacher. ... The successful teacher has to make each of the students a different product rather than the same.”
About This Quote
Advocates for teaching that fosters individual creativity rather than imitation of a single model.
In simple terms: Teach students to become unique, not copies.
Key Takeaway
Encourage originality.
Themes
education
creativity
individuality
learning
Mood
inspirational
thought‑provoking
Type
educational
philosophical
When to use this quote
- classroom
- writing workshops
- mentor programs
Key Concepts
pedagogy
innovation
Questions to Reflect On
- How can teachers support uniqueness without losing standards?
- What methods nurture diverse expression?
A Different Perspective
Balancing guidance with freedom can be challenging for some learners.
