Summary
This quote suggests that originality is not about creating something completely new, but rather about taking existing ideas and concepts and transforming them in a skillful and discerning way. It implies that true originality comes from the conscious and thoughtful act of borrowing and incorporating ideas from various sources, carefully selecting and adapting them to create something fresh and unique. Rather than dismissing plagiarism as dishonest, this quote redefines it as a strategic process of creative synthesis, emphasizing the value of borrowing and building upon existing ideas to generate genuine innovation.