In today's world, it seems that everything is just a reflection or continuation of the past. We often find ourselves standing on the shoulders of earlier works, ideas, or events, where our contributions feel more like annotations rather than original creations. This notion suggests that contemporary culture is deeply influenced by its history, creating a sense that everything we engage with is merely a response to something previously established.

Margaret Atwood's quote from "Cat's Eye" highlights the struggle of originality in a landscape where many elements are derived from prior influences. It prompts us to consider how our identities and perspectives are shaped by the rich tapestry of names and ideas that have come before us, emphasizing the interconnectedness of culture and the challenge of forging an authentic sense of self in a world that feels fundamentally like an echo of what has been.