A few weeks ago, I posted an account of how I became aware of the film "Grey Gardens" and my recollection of how I realized I had met Jerry a few years after I met him. I recently had the pleasure of reconnected with Jerry Torre and acquired my very own autographed copy of his memoir, "The Marble Faun of Grey Gardens," a fascinating dive into his extraordinary life. Born and raised in Brooklyn, Torre's early years were anything but ordinary. Growing up, he had a difficult childhood filled with hardship and adversity. Despite these challenges, he managed to carve out a unique path for himself, leading to his unexpected journey to Grey Gardens.
Jerry's involvement with Grey Gardens began in the mid-1970s when he was just 16 years old. He stumbled upon the decaying mansion while working as a gardener in the Hamptons. There, he met the reclusive yet charismatic Edith Ewing Bouvier Beale ("Big Edie") and her daughter Edith Bouvier Beale ("Little Edie"), relatives of Jackie Kennedy Onassis. Jerry quickly became a trusted friend and confidant to the Beales, earning the nickname "The Marble Faun" for his youthful appearance and artistic interests. His stories from this period are both enchanting and heartbreaking, offering a rare glimpse into the lives of the Beales and the eerie beauty of Grey Gardens.
In "The Marble Faun of Grey Gardens," Torre paints a vivid picture of his time at the mansion, capturing the eccentric charm and poignant moments shared with the Beales. The memoir also delves into his life beyond Grey Gardens, exploring his journey in the art world and his personal growth. After leaving Grey Gardens, Jerry pursued a career in sculpture, working with renowned artists and eventually becoming an accomplished sculptor in his own right. His artistic talents and resilience are evident throughout the book, making it a captivating read.
"The Marble Faun of Grey Gardens" is an engaging and deeply moving memoir that highlights the power of friendship, resilience, and the pursuit of art. Jerry Torre's story is not only a testament to his unique life but also a tribute to the enduring legacy of Grey Gardens and the Beales. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in memoirs, art, or the fascinating history of Grey Gardens.
Buy & Save on this and other great used & NEW books on eBay.
Comments
Post a Comment