The Double Helix

When Perutz is sent a rough theory on how to detect helices in x-ray diffraction images, Cricks has a look, spots a problem and excitedly sets about finding a solution. The theory would be an important asset, as it would provide a means to decisively prove Pauling’s a-helix.

Crick discusses his ideas with Bill Cochran, an x-ray diffraction specialist at the Cavendish. Both think they’re onto something and set to work.

That night, Crick and his wife go to a wine tasting. Watson tells us about Crick’s wife, Odile and their social life. They’ve been married for three years, and live in a small apartment which Odile has decorated, “in a cheerful, if not playful spirit” (46).

Watson has become a friend and regular fixture at their home. He admires Odile’s continental influence, and sees them as a charming intellectual couple, in revolt against “the stodginess of the middle classes” (46). They avoid politics, but both are regular readers of Vogue and like to talk about the young women (“popsies”) of Cambridge and related gossip. On the topic of young women Crick is an enthusiastic contributor.

The next morning Crick comes in with a finished solution. Cochran arrives with almost exactly the same solution and they jointly write a paper confirming the helical diffraction theory.