Imitation is essential for developing voice and style in creative work, as demonstrated by historical figures Anna Laetitia Barbauld and Richard Bentley. In today's context of AI-assisted production, there's a danger of losing the process of learning and growth; instead, we should define effective use of AI, encourage guided imitation, and foster individual authorship. Their teachings remind us that understanding and refining one's voice is crucial in a world increasingly reliant on technology.