This quote insightfully critiques a common approach to learning acting — mimicking the teacher's every movement and subtlety — suggesting that such mimicry leads to an imitation that lacks authenticity and personal expression. It highlights a significant challenge in creative disciplines: when learning under guidance, it’s easy to slip into copying rather than cultivating one’s unique voice. This resonates beyond acting, touching on a broader idea that true mastery is not about replication but about internalizing principles and adapting them in a way that reflects personal interpretation. The quote also celebrates literature as a vital resource for actors, emphasizing its versatility and capacity to stimulate imagination. By drawing inspiration from texts, actors can explore diverse characters and narratives on their own terms, allowing their creativity to flourish and develop distinct interpretations. This perspective encourages learners to embrace imagination and individuality rather than restriction, fostering growth by navigating stories in their own way. Overall, the statement is a profound reminder that learning should be an active, creative process powered by personal engagement rather than passive imitation. It subtly advocates for a balance of guidance and independence, where the student uses the teacher and the tools like literature as foundations, building something original on top of them. This insight challenges conventional methods and invites a more holistic and imaginative approach to artistic development.