What does Jack do for Willie?
As the story progresses in All The King’s Men, it has become evident that Jack serves as a very influential and wise sidekick to Willie Talos. Jack has proven his worth over and over as he tackles the colorful range of occupations and jobs assigned to him by Willie - ranging from “digging up dirt” on political competition, to being a personal advisor, to just simply being a friend. Jack begins his advising career for Willie when Willie comes to question how to make his personal speeches better, at the beginning of his political career. Being an honest and truthful man, Jack offers his views clearly and states, “You tell’ em too much. Just tell’ em you’re gonna soak the fat boys, and forget the rest of the tax stuff”(102). This simple but clear statement is just one of many pieces of advice that Jack will provide Willie Talos throughout his political campaign, demonstrating his honesty and earning himself a job for Willie in the future. Jack, also being an educated historian, has as part of his job times when he needs to “dig up dirt” on political rivals or those that don’t support Willie. Specifically, he needs to “dig up dirt“ on Judge Irwin, a man who once was a father figure to him. “The Boss said: “Well, Jackie, it looks like you got a job cut out for you.”
And I said: “Callahan?”
And he said: “Nope, Irwin” (71). While this help shows the range of the jobs Jack does
for Willie, it also shows the level of professionalism Jack has toward his career. Despite knowing the Judge throughout his whole life, and being close to him, he takes on this job for Willie with complete honesty and unbiased research and conclusions. Jack’s level of professionalism and candid advice makes him a greatly valued associate to Willie, and also earns him his respect and friendship throughout the craziness of it all.
Jack helps Willie in numerous ways that provide Willie with an advantage in his politics. Willie is prepared to do anything he can in the background in order to come out on top in a campaign, such as digging up dirt on anyone necessary. In addition to that and just helping Willie with his speeches. Jack gives priceless advice such as "I heard the speech but they don't give a damn about that. Hell make 'em cry, or make 'em laugh, make 'em think you're their weak and erring pal... Just stir 'em up, it doesn't matter how or why." Advice such as this gives jack his tremendous value to Willie that cannot be understated.
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