Second Fiddles

Give the leaders of today's complex organizations-business, government, education-all the accolades. They deserve it; they are in charge and responsible for outcomes. But then look around. Are they doing it all themselves? Who else is helping? And is there one stalwart individual who carries their share, and often more, on behalf of the enterprise?

Often there is that individual, just out of the limelight, who is endlessly loyal to both the task at hand and also to the leader. They are the aide, the executive assistant, the vice chairperson-but always they are the "Second Fiddles." These lesser-known individuals deserve attention because they are so important.

Who are they? What is the relationship of the Second Fiddle to the Principal in the endeavor? Why do they toil in the shadow of another? Why do they thrive in this subordinate position, and very often have no desire to move up now-or ever? In seeking the answers to these questions, Paul Cline looks at some of the most fascinating real-life and fictional associations, from politics to sports, and family to marriage. And we are rewarded with insights into the lives of the likes of Bobby and JFK, Lou Gehrig and Babe Ruth, Dr. Watson and Sherlock, Eleanor and Franklin, and Aaron and Moses.