I have decided to revisit some books, in particular biographies, which had previously not made much of an impression on me. Perhaps the passing of time and a shift in my circumstances, and those of the world in general, might render them more interesting or impactful. I started with the autobiography of the former racing driver Jackie Stewart, entitled 'Winning Is Not Enough' - I read a paperback edition, published in 2009.
First of all I must make it clear that I have a lot of admiration for Stewart, for what he has achieved, and for how he has conducted his life. I wish that I had, in my own way, followed some of the principles which have paid dividends for him. At the same time, I have some mixed feelings about the merits of this autobiography.
The main reservation which I have is that certain areas of interest, such as his early life and the minutiae of his racing career, are not examined in sufficient detail, whereas other things are allotted what might appear undue space. I suppose that the reader's viewpoint will depend on how they approached the book. Strictly as a 'racing driver biography' it does not quite come up to the mark, but I found that it compensated in other ways.
One other thing to bear in mind is that Stewart was only a 'professional' racing driver for just over a decade, so an autobiography necessarily covers a lot of other ground. Perhaps one day an eminent author will write an exhaustive, intricate and scholarly work devoted solely to his racing exploits.
His childhood struggles with dyslexia are outlined. It is instructive that once he found and identified something for which he had an aptitude, in this case clay pigeon shooting, new vistas were opened up, and his perceptions of himself and the world were altered. A reminder that we all have talents, and something to offer the world. Discovering these strengths, and then applying and channelling them positively and constructively, can make all the difference to us as individuals. This area of the book, along with Stewart's explanations of his modus operandi in life and work, were the themes which really stuck with me afterwards.
The book does not follow a strict linear, chronological pattern, but I did not find that a problem. There are lots of enlightening and amusing stories and anecdotes, although if I was being critical I would say that some of the passages are too 'wordy', and often use several words or phrases where just one would have sufficed. The prose is not particularly lyrical, but I guess this is a matter of personal taste or experience.
Another thing which emerges from the pages is how much Stewart valued simple virtues and guiding principles, and how well these have served him over the years; things such as integrity, simplicity and practicality. It is easy to lose sight of how important these things are in forming the bedrock of relationships or undertakings of all kinds.
The question of 'name-dropping' is one which has been associated with this autobiography. Yes, there is quite a bit of it. Perhaps a bit of judicious pruning might have been advisable, but then again Stewart does mention many less famous, less celebrated figures who helped him and became lifelong friends of his.
I actually quite enjoyed the descriptions of his associations with business and the media. This may not be a fashionable thing to say, but we can all learn something from people who have achieved great things. Try to do your best, to learn and improve, and to seek out opportunities which will be stimulating and empowering. We all have potential just waiting to be realized. We can also benefit from mixing and interacting with people from varying backgrounds, and absorbing some of their perspectives and values.
The chapters dealing with the formation of Stewart Grand Prix I found quite impressive, as they offer some insight into how much work goes into such a project, and how decisions are taken at high levels within organisations. The process does not always on hinge on formality or 'procedure'.
Of course, considerable space is given over to Stewart's involvement in campaigns to improve safety in motor racing. One can only admire his persistence and his energy in pursuing such matters, and there are some moving and absorbing passages documenting the times when he lost friends in accidents.
Overall, this book I think provides a slightly more rounded portrayal of Jackie Stewart the man than sometimes might have been the general public perception. This book is not a masterpiece, it has its faults, but it also has, if read carefully and selectively, the capacity to inspire and to entertain. In a broader sense , for me it at least partially succeeded because it made me feel more optimistic and hopeful, for a short time anyway.
