We often marvel at the creativity and innovation of individuals, but forget to acknowledge the accomplishments of duos. Joshua Wolf Shenk has spent years interviewing, reading and researching a number of successful creative pairs, and identifies the commonalities that brought them to fame and that caused conflict between them. His book ‘Powers of Two: Finding the Essence of Innovation in Creative Pairs’, analyses the relationships between pairs such as John Lennon and Paul McCartney, Francis Crick and James Watson, and the Wright Brothers. While these pairs are widely known, others succeed in a quieter sense, such as Vincent Van Gogh and his brother Theo, or Warren Buffet and Charlie Munger.
Ranging across different fields, from the arts, science, technology, social activism and business, Shenk focuses on pairs that have inspired creativity in one another. In order to first understand the fundamental dynamics of pairs, Shenk initially researched non-household names, and then shifted his attention to more public duos in his book. He has identified the natural progression of these pairs, and although many are not romantic partners, these characteristics may still be applicable in a romantic relationship.
Broken into different stages, Shenk first focuses on the meeting of these pairs, which can occur through random events, an introduction or common interests. Their meeting initiates the confluence of the pairs, bringing their thoughts together through stimulating engagement. He noted that pairs generally mesh into one identity, with their ideas merged into one. These stages happen organically and are building blocks for innovation and creativity.
Shenk’s investigations found that one individual is often hidden in the shadows of the other, with a star and a director. It may be the case that one individual receives more recognition than the other, but in actual fact the creative output would not exist without their unique relationship. A common aspect in each explored dynamic was the presence of distance. The author observes that a healthy balance of physical or mental distance between the duo was vital to their creativity.
In every relationship, personal, professional or romantic, there will be conflict which can either stimulate growth or terminate the partnership. Often an individual will put their personal interests first, which can be used as healthy rivalry to further succeed or cause conflict and result in a break up. A second common occurrence was the death of one partner, profoundly affecting on the other. In any partnership ending, Shenk found that one or both individual’s creative abilities tend to suffer.
Shenk’s analysis of countless partnerships revealed the intricacies of differing situations. Identifying the different stages of a partnership, and the triggers of each stage, revealed that there are commonalities stemming from scientific and psychological principles. Shenk’s book also provided insight into the intimacy of famous partnerships, including their celebrations and struggles. His book was a quick and easy read, with ideas to stimulate thoughts into your own relationships.
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Books for Thought 