ABSTRACT
This chapter shows how common assumptions about linguistic mimicry, in fact, project a core of creativity and originality that need to be viewed as very particular conceptualizations. It focuses on philosophies that have taken seriously the questions of mimicry, imitation, heavy borrowing and repetition. On initial examination, 'derivative linguascapes' might appear as if they are direct mimicry, imitation or even plagiarism, in which language users engage in derivative acts, involving English and other languages. However, a close analysis reveals that derivative linguascapes are a common deliberate performance for varied creative functions and identity purposes. Derivative linguascapes should be examined directly in relation to financescapes and ethnoscapes, because language users' socio-economic positions and external/internal mobility tend to play an important factor in forming their linguascapes. In fact, the speakers who are actively involved with derivative linguascapes seem to afford and enjoy greater access to financescapes and ethnoscapes.
