The Wall is a classic concept album and a true work of art, I don't think "die hard" Floyd fans have ever been convinced about Animals (apart from the iconic sleeve artwork !). True about the history of the band, Syd Barrett was, I guess, your stereotypical "troubled genius", though there was much speculation over his mental state obviously not helped by the copious amounts of LSD and other psychedelic drugs the guy consumed (allegedly), though I suppose it may have assisted the creative process.
The Waters / Gilmour saga I think can also be attributed to the classic rock 'n roll "battle of the ego's", and as you say Keith, it is a great shame that the clash couldn't have been settled more amicably, though now they do seem to tolerate each other with very occasional appearances by Gilmour in Roger Water's tour of The Wall
http://youtu.be/hUYzQaCCt2o. We should also remember we have been blessed with some amazing solo stuff by the two individuals as mentioned previously in the post (you must try some of that also on your Floyd exploration !
)
Let's not also forget the "unsung heroes", Rick Wright (who is sadly not with us any more
) and Nick Mason who both made a massive contribution to the music over the years.
As you say you "couldn't make it up !", but it has left an amazing musical legacy that continues to inspire other musicians and not only enthrals fans that have followed them for years, but people (many of them youngsters) who are just discovering the sheer brilliance of their music.
"By the way, which one's Pink ??"