What is a "pastiche"?

A "pastiche" is defined as a work that combines various elements drawn from different sources or styles, uniquely integrating them into a single piece. This term is often used in contexts such as literature, music, and art to describe works that intentionally mimic or pay homage to the styles and characteristics of other creators or genres.

In literature, for example, an author might create a pastiche by blending different writing styles or referencing various authors in a playful or respectful way. Similarly, in music, a composition may incorporate melodies or structures from different genres, creating a rich tapestry that celebrates diversity in artistic expression.

The other options do not fully capture the essence of what a pastiche is. A unique style of art refers to an original approach that is not necessarily a blend of influences. An original composition implies a work that is entirely new and does not draw from existing sources, while a critique of existing works focuses on analyzing or evaluating those works rather than creatively incorporating them. Therefore, the characterization of pastiche as a piece of music, writing, or art that combines several different sources or styles aptly represents its definition.