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Our influences are who we are. It's rare that anything is an absolutely pure vision; even Daniel Johnston sounds like the Beatles. And that's the problem with the bands I'm always asked about, the ones derivative of the early Seattle sound. They don't dilute their influences enough.
Eddie Vedder
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Interpretation

What this quote means

Our identities are shaped by our influences and inspirations, which can sometimes overshadow originality.

In this quote, Eddie Vedder reflects on the idea that our influences significantly shape who we become as artists or individuals. He notes that originality is often diluted when influences are too evident, suggesting that true innovation requires filtering these inspirations to create something unique rather than merely echoing what came before.

Themes

InfluenceOriginalityIdentityArtMusic

In practice

Example use cases

This quote can be used during a discussion on creativity in art classes.

More from Eddie Vedder

I know I was born and I know that I'll die... _x000D_ The in between is mine._x000D_ I Am Mine
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Things like guitars and ukuleles, you should never part with it, because there will probably be good, healthy times spent, just playing and writing.
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When it comes to grunge or even just Seattle, I think there was one band that made the definitive music of the time. It wasn't us or Nirvana, but Mudhoney. Nirvana delivered it to the world, but Mudhoney were the band of that time and sound.
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I think music is the greatest art form that exists, and I think people listen to music for different reasons, and it serves different purposes. Some of it is background music, and some of it is things that might affect a person's day, if not their life, or change an attitude. The best songs are the ones that make you feel something.
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I think the hardest thing about making music now is being a great dad at the same time. There's an insanity that goes with writing - a mad scientist thing that you have to go through - and sacrificing a kid's upbringing to do that is not an option.
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i know someday you'll have a beautiful life. I know you'll be a sun in somebody else's sky. But why can't it be mine?
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