Norman's ex-wife has cattily observed that they were both narcissists, and too alike for the relationship to work. While her comments were probably motivated by still simmering anger towards them, I think they're still pretty accurate.
Relationships are never completely equal. There always seems to be one "star" who is dominant, and one "stage manager" who takes a more subordinate, supportive role. You can't have two stars. It just becomes a battle of egos!