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Men often applaud an imitation and hiss the real thing.
Aesop
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Interpretation

What this quote means

People frequently admire copies and replicas while dismissing the original.

This quote by Aesop highlights the tendency of individuals to appreciate superficial or imitative forms over genuine authenticity. It serves as a reminder that true originality may not always receive the recognition it deserves, as society often leans towards what is familiar or less challenging to comprehend, rather than valuing the purity of the original concept or idea.

Themes

ImitationAuthenticityAppreciationOriginalityValue

In practice

Example use cases

In a discussion about art, one could use this quote to emphasize the importance of originality over imitation.

More from Aesop

Slow but steady wins the race.
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We often despise what is most useful to us.
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The haft of the arrow had been feathered with one of the eagle's own Lures. We often give our enemies the means of our own destruction.
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We hang the petty thieves and appoint the great ones to public office.
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If you are a friend, why do you bite me so hard? If an enemy, why do you fawn on me?
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The unhappy derive comfort from the misfortunes of others.
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