The Seven Forms themselves are pretty much fictional fun, but you're typically going to start with SOME kind of standardized structure. It's how you learn the basics and develop your foundation, and after that you become more focused, and work on the specifics of your particular methods.
100% agree. We decided a few years back to use Kali ( Inosanto Method ) as our primary " key " to translate the Forms. It's worked out great so far. Our Form 2 , 3 and 6 have a little bit of a Meihuaquan flare as well.
Basics, basics and then more basics. Most important skills IMO. No matter what your art. You don't build a house from the top. So why would you want to skip to the advance stuff. ( Said to no one in particular. Just something I say to our Kali Kids at the Academy. All they want to do is the Advanced material. The " Cool " looking stuff )