The Lindy Effect: Here For The Long Run
By Madison Marlow
Photo from Getty Images Gallery - Micheal Ochs Archive
The Lindy Effect: Here for the Long Run
Have you ever wondered why some things stick around forever while others fade away as quickly as they appeared? That’s where the Lindy Effect comes into play — a fascinating concept that helps explain why certain ideas, creations and trends stand the test of time.
Put simply, the Lindy Effect suggests that the longer something has been around, the more likely it is to endure in the future. Think of it as the survival of the tried-and-true. While Shakespeare and The Beatles are common examples, the Lindy Effect is present in all corners of culture — music, fashion, technology and even memes.
But what makes something truly timeless? How can we use the Lindy Effect to identify future classics in a world obsessed with the new and next?
What Exactly Is the Lindy Effect?
The term “Lindy’s Law” was coined by Albert Goldman in 1964. Named after the famous New York delicatessen, Lindy’s. At Lindy’s, comedians would gather after their shows and discuss the comedic climate of the time. In his New Republic article, he explains that “The life expectancy of a television comedian is proportional to the total amount of exposure on that medium.” I suppose you could relate that to the common saying that any publicity is good publicity – negative or positive.
The principle has since been applied to all kinds of cultural phenomena. The Lindy Effect suggests that for nonperishable things — like books, ideas or art — their lifespan is proportional to their current age. In other words, the older they are, the more likely they are to stick around.
This might sound simple, but it explains a lot about the persistence of classics. It’s why we still read ancient texts, why vintage trends come back into fashion and why older musical genres like jazz and blues continue to inspire modern artists.
The Anatomy of Timelessness
Timelessness isn’t just about age — it’s about relevance and adaptability. Certain ideas and creations resonate deeply with us because they tap into universal truths or evoke emotions that transcend time.
For example:
Fashion: The little black dress has been a wardrobe staple for decades. Why? Because it’s versatile, elegant and adaptable. It meets a need that never really goes out of style.
Stories: Think of myths and legends. They’ve endured for centuries because they explore fundamental themes like love, loss, courage and morality.
Design: Minimalist architecture has its roots in ancient civilizations, yet it still feels fresh and modern because of its focus on simplicity and function.
The secret sauce of timelessness lies in the ability to evolve while staying true to core values.
The Lindy Effect in Today’s World
So how does the Lindy Effect help us navigate today’s fast-paced culture, where trends come and go in the blink of an eye? While it doesn’t offer a definitive guide to predicting the future, it provides a guide for recognizing patterns in what endures.
Take the resurgence of vinyl records, for example. Once considered outdated, they’ve made a strong comeback in recent years. Why? Because they offer something digital music lacks — tactile nostalgia, a sense of ritual and a richer sound experience. Vinyl isn’t just a fad; it connects with a deeper, more enduring appreciation for music as an art form.
The same goes for the slow fashion movement. By rejecting fast fashion in favor of quality, sustainability and timeless design, it mirrors principles that have existed for centuries but feel especially relevant now.
Applying the Lindy Effect in Your Life
Here’s how you can use the Lindy Effect to make better decisions and create a lasting impact in your own life:
Don’t let short-term emotions cloud your judgment: Often our emotions contribute to spontaneous reactions. It can be difficult to stop and think things through when emotions come in hot and fast. Next time this happens, stop can consider how your reaction will benefit your life and mental health in the long run.
Invest in what lasts: Whether it’s your wardrobe, your hobbies or your career, prioritize quality over quantity. Timeless things are usually built with care and designed to endure the test of time.
Create with intention: If you’re a creator, think about what makes your work meaningful. Are you addressing a fleeting trend or creating something with depth and universal appeal? Timelessness is often rooted in authenticity and purpose.
With all of that said, of course, it is okay to be trendy and create with current trends in mind. Just don’t forget to also create and live your life with longevity in mind.
The Power of Timelessness
The Lindy Effect isn’t just a concept; it’s a way of thinking that can help you see the bigger picture. Whether you’re curating your wardrobe, picking the next book to read or planning a project, this principle reminds us that the things worth holding onto are the ones that speak to our humanity, time and time again.
Who knows? Maybe you’ll create the next classic.