Ah, imagination in artistic expression. It's not a myth, it's just often misunderstood. I've seen my fair share of "creative" types who play it safe, sticking to what's been done before. They're not pushing boundaries, they're just coasting along, content to blend in with the crowd.
Now, I'm not saying you have to be a rebel to be imaginative. But you do have to be willing to take a few falls, maybe even DNF (did not finish) a project or two. It's like learning to ride a bike - you can't stay upright without wobbling a bit first.
But let's not romanticize the idea of the "starving artist" either. Being ostracized and criticized isn't some badge of honor. It's just lonely and frustrating. And it sure as hell doesn't pay the bills.
So, is true imagination a myth? No. But it's also not as simple as taking big risks and facing backlash. It's about finding your own path, even if it means zigzagging a bit. And sometimes, that path leads to greatness. Other times, it leads to a nice, scenic route. Either way, it's better than following the pack.