Meaning: The quote "Originality usually amounts only to plagiarizing something unfamiliar" by Katharine Gerould, a writer, encapsulates the idea that creativity often involves drawing inspiration from sources that may not be widely known or recognized. This quote challenges the conventional understanding of originality, suggesting that truly original ideas are often built upon or derived from seemingly obscure or unfamiliar sources.

Katharine Fullerton Gerould (1879–1944) was an American essayist and writer known for her insightful observations on literature, art, and the human experience. In this quote, she offers a thought-provoking perspective on the nature of originality and creativity, inviting readers to reconsider their notions of what it means to produce something truly unique.

The first part of the quote, "Originality usually amounts only to plagiarizing," challenges the traditional understanding of originality as the creation of something entirely new and unprecedented. Instead, Gerould suggests that originality often involves a process of reinterpreting and repurposing existing ideas, concepts, or materials. This aligns with the concept of "remix culture," where creators build upon and transform existing works to generate new and distinct creations.

The second part of the quote, "something unfamiliar," highlights the notion that the sources of inspiration for originality may not always be immediately recognizable or widely known. This challenges the assumption that originality is solely derived from groundbreaking or widely acknowledged sources. Instead, Gerould implies that original ideas can stem from the exploration of lesser-known or overlooked material, thereby broadening the scope of creativity and innovation.

Gerould's quote encourages individuals to embrace the process of discovering and engaging with unfamiliar or unconventional sources of inspiration. It suggests that the act of "plagiarizing something unfamiliar" can lead to the cultivation of unique and inventive ideas. By acknowledging the value of drawing from lesser-known sources, Gerould's quote promotes a more inclusive and expansive approach to creativity, one that celebrates diverse influences and perspectives.

In the context of writing and artistic expression, this quote serves as a reminder that creativity is often a process of synthesis and reinterpretation. Writers and artists are constantly synthesizing ideas, experiences, and influences to produce original work. By recognizing the potential for creativity to emerge from unfamiliar or underappreciated sources, creators can cultivate a more open-minded and exploratory approach to their craft.

Furthermore, this quote challenges the notion of a strict dichotomy between originality and plagiarism. It suggests that the boundary between the two concepts is more nuanced and fluid than commonly assumed. Originality, according to Gerould, can emerge from a process of selective borrowing, recontextualization, and transformation, rather than from entirely independent invention.

Ultimately, Katharine Gerould's quote encourages individuals to embrace a more expansive and inclusive understanding of originality. It invites us to consider the diverse array of influences and inspirations that contribute to the creative process, emphasizing the value of engaging with unfamiliar or overlooked sources. By doing so, Gerould's quote enriches our understanding of creativity and originality, offering a fresh perspective on the dynamic and multifaceted nature of human innovation.