"I said I have no powers of invention. Well, I also have no powers of mimicry"

Norman MacCaig's quote is a reflection on his own creative abilities. He is acknowledging that he does not have the capability to create originalities or concepts, nor does he have the capability to mimic the ideas of others. This quote might be interpreted as a humble admission of his own limitations, or as a statement of his own imaginative stability. He is not happy to simply copy the concepts of others, however instead wishes to create something original. This quote might also be analyzed as a pointer to be honest with oneself and to recognize one's own strengths and weak points. MacCaig's quote is a tip to be honest with oneself and to acknowledge one's own creative restrictions, while likewise making every effort to develop something unique and initial.