“The opportunity you offer me is challenging, but I want to dedicate
my efforts in a field I know and continue my all-out exploration of every
opportunity the advertising agency business may offer. “It may not work,
but I can never say I didn’t try. “In a year or two, Kincaid will be on the
map or it won’t.
Whatever is accomplished will be significantly attributable to my
efforts.
“The management experience you offer could be valuable and
maturing. In working with you, I am as convinced as you are about the
danger of nepotism. I know I would report to Johnnie Babcock, not you,
and agree with Johnnie that working for my father could result in an
arbitrary and necessarily low salary. I’m worth what Kincaid is paying me
now and may not be worth that to you for several years.
“In outdoor, I think I could be a good salesman, but I might not be. I
know I can sell corporate images, marketing plans, and creative ideas to
advertising clients who hired us for our advice, but maybe not billboards
to new customers through cold calls.
“In my field I am already a competent and proven manager. I would
rather learn and develop my capabilities in a situation that puts no pressure
on the two of us. If I don’t make it here, neither of us will be embarrassed.
We would be if I failed working for you in the job you offer.
“I know what it took you to offer me this spot. I’m deeply moved that
you think enough of me to do it. My major concern is that my refusal will
lead you to shut the door on the possibility of working together in the
future. I hope this won’t happen. I’m sure you can understand.”
And so I turned down a second, but this time upgraded, offer from my
father.
CHAPTER 16: BACK TO ITHACA
Lemme down, There’s a lot of us been pushed around, Red, yellow,
black, white and brown, With a tear their own. Oh, can’t you see, While
you’re picking on society, That the leaves on your family tree Are calling
you to come home? In your head, You don’t believe what the Good Book
said, You’re gonna strike out now instead. ’Cause the world’s been
unkind, But through thick and thin, Whatever shape your heart is in, You
only have one next of kin. Better keep ’em in mind.
—From the song “Keeper of the Castle” by Dennis Lambert and Brian
Potter
“Better keep ‘em in mind” came to mind from The Four Tops again in
this song a year after I moved to Charlotte. My earlier premonition that my
