Anything can be done if you find friends to do it with. The lucky biographers find themselves drawn into a sort of friendship with their subject.

Amity Shlaes' quote emphasizes the power of friendship and collaboration in achieving goals. The idea that "anything can be done" suggests that even the most challenging tasks become manageable when you have friends by your side. This speaks to the strength of community and how collective effort can make seemingly impossible tasks achievable, as the support and encouragement from others can fuel progress and success.

The second part of the quote focuses on biography-writing, specifically how the best biographers often develop a deep, personal connection with their subjects. Shlaes suggests that these lucky biographers don't just observe their subjects from a distance but become deeply intertwined in their stories, almost like friends. This relationship adds depth to the biography, as the biographer can offer a more intimate portrayal of the person’s life, capturing their essence more authentically.

The quote also highlights the mutual influence that exists in any meaningful relationship, whether it’s between friends or a biographer and their subject. It speaks to the idea that both parties shape and influence each other. Just as friends inspire and support one another, a biographer can be transformed by the connection they share with the person they are documenting, leading to a richer, more personal account of their subject's life.

Ultimately, Shlaes is reflecting on the idea that friendship is not just a personal connection but a vital force that can help achieve goals and provide a deeper understanding of others. It is this bond, whether in writing or life, that allows people to accomplish more and form more meaningful narratives.