The Power of Concealing Your Sources

Photo by Kristina Flour on Unsplash

“He who is most creative conceals his sources the best.” This quote, attributed to the famous philosopher and mathematician Albert Einstein, but not to be sure, highlights the importance of creativity in art and innovation. It suggests that true creativity involves taking inspiration from various sources and transforming it into something new and original without revealing the sources of that inspiration. Take this blog post as a simple example.

But why is it important to conceal one’s sources in pursuing creativity? One reason is that it allows the creator to fully own their work and avoid accusations of plagiarism or copying. By concealing their sources, they can demonstrate that their ideas are indeed their own and not just a copy of someone else’s.

Additionally, concealing one’s sources allows for more incredible surprise and intrigue when presenting new work to an audience. When a piece of art or innovation is revealed to the world, it is often more impactful if the audience cannot easily trace its inspiration. This element of surprise can add to the mystery and allure of the work, making it more memorable and impactful.

In conclusion, the quote “he who is most creative conceals his sources the best” highlights the importance of originality and surprise in the pursuit of creativity. By concealing the sources of their inspiration, creators can fully own their work and create a greater impact with their ideas.