Dynamic duos
From Martin and Lewis to Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid, Pinky and the Brain to Batman and Robin, we love sidekicks, supporting characters, partners in crime, and dynamic duos. Take any one out of the list above, and it’s just not the same.
Batman without Robin? No way.
You see, a good sidekick isn’t just about comedic timing. A good sidekick has all of the characteristics that the other lacks. If one person is funny, the other is serious. If one person is rebellious, the other is a goody two-shoes. And both are so in such a way that it highlights the others’ strengths. It’s true that there’s a sense of invincibility when it comes to a good sidekick, or sidekicks. After all, they’re there to help you with the things you can’t do.
Culturally, we know this and we love it. There’s no Sherlock without Watson, no Ferris without Cameron. Who doesn’t want that kind of “I’ve-got-your-back” partnership in life?
Partners in crime
Growing up with best friends who were twins, I traveled in a trio. Walking to the ice cream truck, I was placed strategically between the two. Riding in the car, shuffling around dinner tables, lounging at the beach: all required a fair and equal distribution between myself and my two best friends.
Of course, as kids, everything is critical. Going to the park right now or staying at the beach for just five more minutes are indicative of that pressing sense of urgency. There is no filter, no inner voice toning things down a notch. Such is especially true with childhood friendships. The bond that develops between young friends is insatiable — without self-consciousness, children give freely of themselves and develop these magical bonds.
With my childhood friends, we often joked that we were the Three Musketeers. (Or, our preference, a skimpy version of the Power Rangers.) Either way, those friendships made me feel powerful, like I had my buddies in life and I was invincible.
A couple of challenges
For this week’s writing challenge, consider the sidekicks. Those who add an element of surprise, wonder, laughter, or adventure to your daily life.
- For the literary minded, draw from a previous story you’ve written. This time, shake things up and shine the limelight on one of your secondary characters.
- We’ve all got friends in our lives that we wouldn’t be the same without. Tell us about one of your sidekicks. Or, flip things around and let us know what kind of sidekick you are to your best bud.
- For the truly adventurous, try pairing up with another blogger to tag team a post. Find your blogging soul mate and put out something only you two could create in your own unique collaboration.
- Find some justice. Who’s someone that you always thought was treated like a third wheel, and never got any prime time action?
We’re looking forward to hearing about your favorite supporting characters.
