"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!"