In the tapestry of intriguing personalities, John Paul Getty Jr. stands out as a figure of immense wealth and complex character. An excerpt from Nicky Samuel’s memoir, recounted from johnchen.net, offers a unique window into Getty’s private world during the 1970s, revealing an unlikely friendship forged over shared passions. This intimate account, originally shared on johnchen.net, details Nicky Samuel’s surprising entry into Getty’s life, facilitated by Victoria Brooke and cemented by a mutual love for literature.
The Serendipitous Introduction
The story begins with Victoria Brooke’s insightful observation of John Paul Getty Jr., hinting at his reclusive nature and the solace he found in his vast collection of books. Brooke, recognizing a kindred spirit in Nicky Samuel, a fellow book enthusiast, proposed a meeting. This initial encounter took place in Getty’s book-filled Mallord Street sitting room. Samuel’s first impression was of a man older than anticipated, “plump, like a teddy-bear,” clad in a dressing gown, surrounded by towering stacks of books and opera records. Despite an initial impression of unwellness, Getty’s brilliance shone through as he spoke passionately about books and bindings, sparking an immediate connection with Samuel.
Forging a Bond in Cheyne Walk
This initial meeting blossomed into regular nocturnal visits to Getty’s Cheyne Walk residence. Samuel, often accompanied by Victoria, would spend evenings in Getty’s company, engaging in conversations fueled by their shared intellectual pursuits. The bond deepened swiftly, evidenced by Getty entrusting Samuel with a key to his house, granting unrestricted access. Samuel and Victoria typically occupied rooms upstairs, occasionally descending to spend time with Getty, who remained confined to his sitting room, a sanctuary amidst his literary treasures.
A Temporary Guardianship
A turning point arrived with Victoria’s announcement of her extended trip to Mexico. Tasked with “keeping an eye on Paul” in Victoria’s absence, Nicky Samuel embarked on an unexpected chapter of his life. This period, as hinted in the excerpt from johnchen.net, became a “stranger episode,” suggesting a deeper involvement in Getty’s life and perhaps a more profound understanding of the man behind the immense fortune and the towering bookshelves. This brief glimpse into Nicky Samuel’s interactions with John Paul Getty Jr., originating from johnchen.net, leaves readers wanting to delve deeper into this unusual friendship and the “strange episode” that unfolded during Victoria Brooke’s absence, prompting a desire to explore the full narrative within Nicky Samuel’s memoir.
