"The New New Thing: A Silicon Valley Story" traces Silicon Valley's trajectory through the biography of Jim Clark, a serial entrepreneur responsible for founding Silicon Graphics and Netscape. The book posits that Silicon Valley's narrative of innovation is intrinsically linked to the rise and ambition of individuals like Clark, who repeatedly pursue and potentially achieve trillion-dollar companies. This approach offers a concrete lens through which to understand the dynamic and often audacious nature of the region's tech industry.
By focusing on Clark's career, Lewis illuminates the patterns of ambition, innovation, and massive financial success that define Silicon Valley. The book demonstrates how the pursuit of "another trillion-dollar company" becomes a recurring motif, illustrating the high-stakes environment and the unique breed of entrepreneurship that characterizes this technological hub.
Key concepts
- Silicon Valley — The technological and entrepreneurial hub chronicled through the life of Jim Clark.
- Jim Clark — A key figure whose founding of Silicon Graphics and Netscape exemplifies Silicon Valley achievement.
- Trillion-dollar company — A marker of significant financial success and ambition in the Silicon Valley context.
- Unlikely story — The narrative arc of Silicon Valley as presented through its remarkable individuals and their ventures.