Metaphorical kingdoms are explored, using King Lear as a map. The interrelationship of the center and the edge, the core and the periphery, forms the central thesis of the article. What happens when the center does not hold, when the king is mad? A range of metaphors reflecting on falling and catching, holding and letting go, seeks to reflect some of the invisible realities of life in organizations, particularly during periods of transition and succession. The relationship of the endowed chair of the king to the "houseless heads of the kingdom" makes this a play for our times. (Bruce Lackie)