Observing the Observers
Sherlockian deduction requires of the individual two things. First, a keenness of observation that is so beyond the norm that it may often appear as magic to those unaware of its nature. Second, a reasoning mind that is virtually peerless in its environment, aside from one particular mind. There is one mind that moves above it, and one that moves on the same level. The same level is reserved for an arch enemy, one’s nemesis.
The higher level is that of the older sibling. A sibling that has reasoning capacities far beyond the realm typically associated with the self. Mycroft Holmes, first introduced in the story “The Greek Interpreter” is the older brother of Sherlock Holmes. The contrast between the two serves as a perfect model to outline the, perhaps tired, axiom that “Genius is 1 percent inspiration and 99 percent perspiration” Why? Because although Mycroft’s deductive qualities far exceed those of his younger brother he is virtually incapable, or unwilling, to work out the finer points that come with an investigation. Adequate answers without proof may be sufficient for some, but for criminal investigations they are only working models. That is why Sherlock is the go to guy in London while his older brother, brilliant though he may be, is assigned an entirely different part to play.
But I am not particularly interested in the differences between the characters, rather I am struck by the similarities that are put on display. Both individuals care only about the problem, the logical components that are required to solve it and the development of the mind. This is clearly visible in several cases on Sherlock’s part. He has shown some mild interest in various women throughout his career, all directly involved with a case that needed solving. Once these cases were brought to an end the interest vanished completely and he returned to his old life. And perhaps it is that secluded interest, the separation between relevant and irrelevant, that justifies Mycroft’s perceived laziness. If the problem is all that matters and it is solved in the mind beyond question, then going through great lengths to justify one’s claims is a waste of energy.
The above may look like an assumption but it’s not. It is obvious in various stories that Sherlock cares about the problem, not the law and not the impending suffering of others. This coldness is essential to his analytic mind and reputation as, arguably, the world’s greatest detective. Sherlock goes through the routine of solving the problem (for which he often has to do detective work) for the problem’s sake…not because he wishes to provide evidence to the authorities. Once he solves the case he is inclined to call the police and leave them to their devices. He also refuses cases that do not interest him on the logical level.
So Sherlock’s routine is for his own sake entirely and, possibly, Mycroft just doesn’t need it. Perhaps that’s an overlooked side of Genius. Genius is measured in functionality entirely and not always in quality. Although the zenith of human accomplishments needs brilliance it may be so that this brilliance shines brighter in others but that functionality…application, is not accomplished. This is an interesting enough note to end this particular writing on, I think.