In my short 26 years (21 of those learning magic) I have encountered many characters - Both real and fictional.
Of them few have left much of a mark, regardless of the point that I try to learn from everyone I meet. In these blog posts, entitled "Inspiration," I will address those shining few that have.
Sherlock Holmes. A name which many would say needs no introduction.
For completeness-sake: A fictional character created by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle in 1886. Largely a rebellion against other mystery/crime books of the time which relied heavily upon "coincidence" or "blind luck " for the hero/detective to find and capture the bad guy. Sherlock, unlike others, relied solely upon his keen wit, logic, and reasoning (as well as his trusty companion Dr. Watson) to solve crimes.
More recently, Sherlock has been revived in a BBC television show starring Benedict Cumberbatch. This modern spin holds surprisingly true to the books and even includes inside jokes for readers. Baroque (a favorite for me) and modern styling are seamlessly thrust together in quite an interesting juxtaposition. Especially true in this rendition, is how near madness and genius really are. Other enjoyable themes include the rare "human" side of a thinking machine like S.H., the inescapable downside of being an addict (with surprising upsides), and most recently, the inevitable reconciliation of one's past. Despite mixed reviews, I would say the new series sheds a very new light on an old hero.
Sherlock uses his incredible observation skills, coupled with a very logical mind, in order to uncover the hidden truth. Whether he is observing people or crime scenes, his mind deduces the logical outcome and acts upon that conclusion. In this way Sherlock makes much of what is hidden to us, "Mere mortals" obvious - Elementary. Sherlock isn't the type to gloat once he has arrived at a conclusion, however, he is quite famous for allowing things to unfold as they may have while secretly manipulating the final outcome in his favor. Quite a stylish sentiment considering the fact that often lives are on the line.
Sherlock and I share a very lovely view of life. Simply stated - Life is a game and the game is afoot!
Sherlock Holmes encourages me every single day to be the man I want to be. He is a constant reminder of the standard "Brains over brawn." In his more recent escapades he has brought to light the great strength which can be found in a bond of true friendship, love, and understanding. Striving also to remain my true self, regardless of which hat I am forced to dawn at the beginning of each day, is a lesson Mr. Holmes can, perhaps, teach us all.
Finally Sherlock reminds me always to keep an ever vigilant eye out for a solution which lies just beyond what I am seeing now, to keep an open mind even when things seem impossible, and above all, to trust in myself.
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The Great Wizard Hammond