"Hello, r/writing. Can I use a particular gimmick or a plot device that has been used before but because I don't actually read books or do any research I just assume it to be a highly original idea?"
"
According to the r/writing subreddit Principle, the answer is always yes. You can write
whatever you want."
"But is it ok if, like, my main character dies in the end? I'm afraid the average reader will be put off by my
creative genius."
"Yes! Stop asking other people for validation! Grow a backbone and write what you want!"