Quote by Samuel Johnson
Imitations produce pain or pleasure, not because they are mistaken for realities, but because they bring realities to mind.
Summary
This quote suggests that imitations, whether in the form of art, media, or simulations, provoke feelings of pain or pleasure. These emotions are not a result of mistakenly perceiving imitations as real, but rather because they evoke memories or remind us of the actual realities they imitate. The power of imitations lies in their ability to connect us to real experiences, stirring up genuine emotions that stem from personal associations and recollections. Thus, imitations hold the capacity to evoke both joy and distress, depending on the individual's experiences and perceptions.