Joseph Paris’s memoir, “Hairman of the Board,” offers a unique lens through which to examine the complex dynamics of celebrity, masculinity, and intimacy in the 20th century. While ostensibly a collection of anecdotes about Frank Sinatra, the book transcends the genre of celebrity tell-all, offering a nuanced exploration of power, vulnerability, and the performance of selfhood.
Paris, a working-class kid from Brooklyn who reinvented himself as a celebrity hairstylist, occupied a liminal space in Sinatra’s world. He was both insider and outsider, confidant and employee, witness to both the public persona and the private struggles of the iconic singer.This unique vantage point allows him to offer a perspective that goes beyond the usual fawning admiration or salacious gossip that often characterizes celebrity biographies.
One of the most striking themes in the book is the intricate dance of power and vulnerability that played out between Sinatra and those in his orbit. Sinatra, the Chairman of the Board, exuded an aura of absolute control, both on stage and off. Yet, Paris also reveals glimpses of the man behind the myth, the insecure, moody, and often vulnerable individual who relied on the loyalty and discretion of his inner circle.
This dynamic of power and vulnerability was further complicated by the prevailing norms of masculinity in the era. Sinatra embodied a particular brand of mid-century masculinity – tough, charismatic, and unapologetically dominant. Yet, his reliance on Paris, a man whose profession was traditionally associated with femininity, reveals a more nuanced understanding of masculinity. Sinatra’s need for intimacy and care, expressed through the ritual of the haircut, challenges the traditional image of the stoic, self-sufficient male.
Furthermore, Paris’s memoir highlights the performative nature of identity, particularly for those in the public eye. Sinatra was always “on,” crafting and maintaining his image with meticulous care. Paris, as the man responsible for Sinatra’s iconic hairstyle, played a crucial role in this performance of self. The act of grooming became a ritualistic preparation for the stage, a moment of transformation from the private man to the public persona.
However, “Hairman of the Board” is not just a study in celebrity and masculinity. It also offers a fascinating glimpse into the social and cultural landscape of the 20th century. Paris’s journey from Brooklyn butcher shop to Sinatra’s inner circle reflects the changing dynamics of class and social mobility in postwar America. His encounters with a diverse cast of characters, from Hollywood stars and music legends to royalty and politicians, provide a panoramic view of an era marked by both glamour and social upheaval.
Moreover, Paris’s memoir raises intriguing questions about the nature of intimacy and friendship. His relationship with Sinatra was complex and multifaceted, characterized by loyalty, affection, and occasional conflict. Paris was privy to Sinatra’s most private moments, offering him comfort and support during times of personal and professional turmoil. Yet, he also had to navigate the challenges of maintaining his own identity and autonomy within the powerful gravitational pull of Sinatra’s personality.
In conclusion, “Hairman of the Board” is more than just a celebrity memoir. It’s a thought-provoking exploration of power, vulnerability, and the performance of self in the context of 20th-century celebrity culture. By offering an intimate glimpse into the world of Frank Sinatra, Joseph Paris invites us to reflect on the complex dynamics of human relationships and the enduring allure of fame. His story reminds us that even the most iconic figures are ultimately human, with all the complexities and contradictions that entails.
Get a copy of the book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/41anhWp
