Mutual inspiration as it best is just like riding a bike - the way the pedals are mounted on a bike, at an angle of 180 degrees between the two pedal arms, makes the two legs of the human body work together in a perfect way: once one pedal has reached the bottom moved by one foot, it has at the same time put the other pedal in the optimal position to let the other foot push it down, after which it it is time to wait while the other foot makes its contribution. In the same way as two people in committed conversation or other interaction constantly have the opportunity to bring the common understanding forward. If the human body had had more feet, the metaphor could easily be extended to conversations among several people.
The metaphor can also be used to illustrate when the mutual inspiration is less optimal. If the two parties fully agree, they will have difficulties bringing each other further onwards - similar to the situation when a cyclist stands on one pedal with both feet. It might move that pedal to the bottom position faster, but once you get there, progress is limited. Or if one of the parties does not contribute - well, you can sit ever so correct on the bike, but if one leg hangs down passively and does not pedal, you will not get anywhere.
But the important thing is: if you sit correctly on the bike, and both feet participate, you go forward in a way that feels like you hardly have to make an effort. Which is exactly as mutual inspiration works when it is at its best.
(Translated from Noget om cykelture og gensidig inspiration)
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