Mimicry as learning
As babies, we learn intuitively through mimicry.
As adults, we have stronger filters on what and who we are emulating. Mimicry seems too simplistic to be valuable. Our inner voice says we should be able to figure it out on our own.
But consider this. If we don't mimic, how do we develop confidence in a practice and synthesise ideas creatively? Learning ideas on paper is great but engaging those ideas in practice is even better.
Mimicry provides a starting point and practical anchor for learning. We need to be wary of our sources and their biases and remain practical.
Don't always get stuck learning theory. Go practice and mimic in the real world.