High artistic achievement by siblings is rare. The Powys family is distinctive in that 3 brothers achieved eminence in literature, and 7 of the 10 siblings who survived to adulthood had creative accomplishments. Analysis of biographical material suggests that the Powys home provided an intensely stimulating environment and promoted a high level of interdependence that persisted into adulthood, factors that may have influenced the creative interests and unconventional lifestyles of the family members. Nevertheless, the siblings differed in their artistic interests and accomplishments. Temperament, educational experiences, gender roles and availability of social support networks are examined as factors influencing disparities in achievement.
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