The Google Test

I was excited to have an idea the other day, which I believed to be entirely my own, only to discover that someone else had it first. This was that certain Enya songs would work perfectly as town themes in RPGs. For instance: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=52ev9CW7gzw

Because the origins of ideas are often mysterious, I always subject mine to 'The Google Test,' which involves simply running your idea through Google's search engine. If nothing comes up, I feel safe writing about it. But sure enough, a Google of 'Enya music and RPGs' reveals a forum discussion on the topic, as well as several relevant videos on Youtube. (Although, I have to say, I didn't see anyone zero in on my specific idea concerning town themes. My personal favorite: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bBKISUb3sXE)

Nevertheless, my motivation to write the article had been thoroughly squashed. And I couldn't help but wonder if I would have been better off to just write it, and not worry so much about whether the idea was purely original. Finally: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eoqBbr67o8k

(3)

Nick Nordstrom

October 11, 2010

Just write the article anyways. What you say about the subject may be different than what anyone else has said. Also, you're exposing more people to said subject. I've never listened to Enya, but I can see how her songs would work in RPGs after I listened to your links.

So if you're interested in something, go ahead and write about it!

Jay Henningsen

October 12, 2010

I would read such an article and probably enjoy it. I wouldn't worry too much about Google. You can find damn near anything if you look hard enough, but that doesn't mean that you can't explore the topic yourself and possibly even do a better job.

I would never have known someone had the idea before you unless you told me. It's not the type of thing I'd find myself searching for on a whim.

Ryan Good

October 13, 2010

Thanks for the comments guys.