“She wondered how Dr. Watson — a clever man in his own right — had lasted so many years without bashing his roommate over the head out of sheer frustration.”
― Emma Jane Holloway, A Study in Darkness
When it comes to literary duos, few are as iconic as Sherlock and Watson. Sherlock Holmes, known as the most brilliant detective in the world, mostly steals the spotlight with his uncanny deductions and witty nature. And while Holmes’ intellect often takes centre stage, Watson quietly but profoundly shapes the heart of these captivating narratives.
Often relegated to the shadows of Holmes’ genius, Watson’s character is a masterpiece in its own right. Watson’s reactions and emotions serve as our compass, guiding us through the extensive and often complicated plots and offers glimpses into the great detective’s mind.
A guide to the Sherlock Holmes Series created by writer Sir Arthur Conan Doyle: The Essential Guide to Reading the Sherlock Holmes Books | Reedsy Discovery
Why is Watson legendary?
We live in a world which glorifies individual intellect and solitude. While self-sufficiency isn’t the villain in itself, it makes it harder to navigate life sometimes. There are a few reasons why every Sherlock needs a Watson.
- Creativity Catalysis — Watson’s genuine curiosity ignites the spark of exploration within himself and readers alike. Even though his theories often turn out to be untrue, that doesn’t stop Watson from wondering about the possible outcomes of their endeavours. He frequently questions Sherlock’s methodology, challenging him into thinking about alternative possibilities.
“I am afraid, my dear Watson, that most of your conclusions were erroneous. When I said that you stimulated me I meant, to be frank, that in noting your fallacies I was occasionally guided towards the truth.”
— Sherlock Holmes
- Acting as the Bridge — Watson embodies the logic and curiousness of his companion, Sherlock but he also has that imaginative and embedded curiosity with our genius detective’s lacks. Therefore acting as the bridge of rationality between Sherlock and ourselves as readers. He is our narrator for a reason
- Pillar of Support — Watson’s role extends beyond mere documentation and narration. He is the faithful and supportive friend of Sherlock Holmes. As a counterbalance to Holmes’ analytical and often detached demeanour, Watson’s practicality, down-to-earth nature, and compassionate outlook create a harmonious partnership that enhances the stories’ depth and intrigue. His genuine care for Holmes contributes to the authenticity of their friendship and the emotional resonance of their interactions.
- Partner in Crime — As established in the novels, Watson is a retired army doctor. His medical expertise allows him to attend to injured parties, examine crime scenes, and provide crucial assistance that aids Holmes’ analytical process. He isn’t just a passive viewer of the unfolding events, but an active pursuiter alongside Sherlock. Their physical chases, onsite investigations and confrontations provide readers with a less genius and more humane angle for understanding the story.
- Balancing Sherlock: The fact that both characters are so different and even opposite in some ways also plays into this. They balance each other’s stories narratively. It’s fair to say that The Great Detective and his many cases wouldn’t be the same without Watson’s help (and narration).
Why do we need a Watson in our lives?
“You have a grand gift for silence, Watson. It makes you quite invaluable as a companion.”
― Arthur Conan Doyle, The Complete Sherlock Holmes
While not a traditional idiom or historical phrase, “We all need a Watson” has gained popularity as a metaphorical reference to the importance of having a supportive and complementary partner and friend, derived from the beloved Sherlock Holmes series by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle.
In today’s fast-paced world, a “Watson” figure is invaluable. Though not easy to gain such a trusting person in life, it sure is worth having one. We all need someone with a balanced perspective amidst information overload. A person that provides emotional support in times of stress, encourages critical thinking, fosters collaborative synergy, and serves as a trusted confidant and advisor.
Even though our genius detective is a self-proclaimed sociopath (highly functioning, mind that), it is quite clear from various instances how much he values his companion and cares for him as his friend.
“You’re not hurt, Watson? For God’s sake, say that you are not hurt!”
It was worth a wound — it was worth many wounds — to know the depth of loyalty and love which lay behind that cold mask. For the one and only time I caught a glimpse of a great heart as well as of a great brain.”— Dr. John Watson to Sherlock Holmes
Resources:
- Every Sherlock needs a Dr. Watson: A theory of creativity catalysts in organizations — Koseoglu — 2022 — Journal of Organizational Behavior — Wiley Online Library
- ‘Watson: Last Great Tale of the Legendary Sherlock Holmes’ — West Central Tribune | News, weather, sports from Willmar Minnesota (wctrib.com)
- Why Watson Is So Important To Sherlock (Despite Not Solving Cases) (screenrant.com)
- Arthur Conan Doyle bibliography — Wikipedia
Thanks for Reading :)
