In practical terms, the “inspiration” method of choosing colors for a map and
layout is this: next time you are looking at a nice piece of art online, in a magazine,
newspaper, or museum, take a moment to mentally (or physically) record the color
scheme in as much detail as possible. What colors are used on the focal point? What
colors are used in the background? How do they blend together? What kind of feel‑
ing do the colors relate to you? You can then adapt those colors to your map and
layout. Yes, what I am saying is let other people do the work of choosing colors that
look good together for you.