It depends entirely on artistic license. If the artist chooses to use the lighted bulb as a symbol, then Yes, it stands for inspiration. I believe, more commonly, it stands for “AH HA” understanding.

Inspiration could be a shooting star.

I agree with @YARNLADY that a light bulb means “aha” to most people. Or, a symbol of having clarity suddenly, an epiphany even.

I always thought it meant that the character had a sudden bright idea. (light bulb suddenly allowed person to see the light or solution?)

Like the others, I wouldn’t consider it a symbol of inspiration. “Aha!” or “Eureka!” come to mind, with the light bulb image.

@YARNLADY , @JLeslie , @Sunny2 , @augustlan When I said “inspiration” I also meant those “aha” and Eureka moments, my bad, lol :)

I guess there probably isn’t any such absolute symbol for inspiration, but I have to say, cartoons were/are pretty good at using the light bulb idea as something concrete, for when a character got an idea or realized something or wtv. It gets the idea across and everyone understands.

@Symbeline I know right, it was funny when it was used in cartoons, its not used as much anymore nowadays though, unfortunately :)

I don’t watch much cartoons now unless they’re adult oriented, so I denno. Always seemed so classic to me though lol.

How many republicans does it take to change a lightbulb?
None, they only screw the poor….aye tharnk eww!

@ucme GA,LOL!
How many psychiatrists does it take to change a lightbulb?

One, but it takes a long time, and the lightbulb really has to want to change.

@ucme , @Yetanotheruser Lmao!! :D