Out of my entire annual output of songs, perhaps two, or at the most three, came as a result of inspiration. We can never rely on inspiration. When we most want it, it does not come.
George GershwinRead
Originality is the only thing that counts. But the originator uses material and ideas that occur round him and pass through him. And out of his experience comes the original creation.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Originality comes from individual experience, but it is influenced by external ideas and materials.
The quote highlights the idea that genuine creativity stems from an individual's unique experiences and insights, yet it acknowledges that these are often shaped by the inspirations and materials present in the individual's environment. Thus, while originality is crucial, it is not created in a vacuum; rather, it emerges from the interplay between personal experience and the influences of the surrounding world.
Themes
OriginalityCreativityExperienceInfluence
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech about innovation at a tech conference, one could use this quote to emphasize the importance of originality in creating new products.
More from George Gershwin
All quotes →The composer does not sit around and wait for an inspiration to walk up and introduce itself...Making music is actually little else than a matter of invention aided and abetted by emotion. In composing we combine what we know of music with what we feel.
George GershwinRead
I want to say at once that I frankly believe that Irving Berlin is the greatest songwriter that has ever lived.... His songs are exquisite cameos of perfection, and each one of them is as beautiful as its neighbor. Irving Berlin remains, I think, America's Schubert.
George GershwinRead
Summertime And the living is easy Fish are jumpin' And the cotton is high Oh, your daddy's rich And your mama's good lookin' So hush little baby now don't you cry One of these mornin's You're gonna rise up singin' Then you'll spread your wings And take to the sky But til that mornin' Ain't nothin' can harm you With your daddy And your mammy standin' by.
George GershwinRead
For suddenly, I saw you there And through foggy London town The sun was shining everywhere.
George GershwinRead
Music sets up certain vibration which unquestionably results in a physical reaction. Eventually the proper vibration for every person will be found and utilized.
George GershwinRead
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