Peter Gatien, a name synonymous with the electrifying New York nightlife of the 80s and 90s, is stepping into a new chapter: authorship. For years, the idea of penning a book lingered, with publishers expressing interest. However, the timing never felt quite right until now. In a serendipitous turn of events, the project gained momentum organically, spurred by a chance encounter at Amazon. Initially, a different project was pitched, but it was Jennifer Gatien, Peter’s daughter, who inadvertently opened the door to his memoir. Presenting the concept of her father’s story, with a director already attached, Amazon swiftly recognized the compelling narrative of Peter Gatien’s life. Simultaneously, an agent friend of Jennifer’s, at a casual social gathering, expressed keen interest in representing Peter Gatien for a book deal. Suddenly, all the pieces aligned, setting the stage for Peter Gatien to share his story in his own words.
The journey to this point, however, has been far from straightforward. Peter Gatien candidly admits that in the immediate aftermath of his deportation, writing a book was inconceivable. Anger and resentment were too raw. “I was really angry when I got deported. It would have not been the time to write a book—I was angry,” he reflects. This deportation, a significant blow after three decades in the United States and raising US citizen children, became a catalyst for introspection and eventually, a deeper understanding of empathy. Drawing parallels to current events at the border, Peter Gatien expresses a heightened sense of compassion, acknowledging that while his own ordeal was challenging, it was markedly different from the dire circumstances faced by others.
Growing up in Canada, Peter Gatien was captivated by the allure of the American dream. He lived it, breathed it, and embodied it – until unforeseen circumstances altered his course. When questioned about his current belief in the American dream, Peter Gatien offers a nuanced perspective. He believes the landscape has shifted dramatically, particularly for younger generations. The pervasive influence of social media and the increasing consolidation of industries by corporations have reshaped the world, making the American dream of his youth seem almost unattainable today.
Peter Gatien vividly recalls the vibrant club scenes of the 70s, 80s, and 90s, eras preceding the all-consuming nature of social media. The 90s, he notes, were the last vestige of a time when experiencing culture required physical presence and engagement. Discovering fashion trends, underground music movements, or connecting with like-minded individuals from diverse subcultures – be it drag queens or hip-hop enthusiasts – necessitated venturing out into the real world. New York City’s nightclubs, in this pre-digital age, served as vital incubators for art, fashion, and music. Peter Gatien laments the absence of such cultural legacy building in contemporary nightlife, where fleeting moments often overshadow lasting impact.
He expresses concern about the evolving communication landscape, observing a decline in genuine interpersonal connection among younger generations. Over-reliance on text-based communication, devoid of tonal nuances, and the pervasive distraction of phones, even during shared experiences, contribute to a sense of detachment and diminished presence. Surprise and spontaneity, once integral parts of life, seem increasingly rare.
Addressing the content of his book, Peter Gatien emphasizes that it will not be a sensationalized tell-all. His intention is not to engage in negativity or expose personal failings, with the notable exceptions of figures like Giuliani and government entities involved in his deportation. He values discretion and empathy, drawing from his own experiences in the public eye. For instance, while recounting anecdotes involving celebrities like Liza Minnelli, Peter Gatien prioritizes portraying them with respect and understanding, resisting the urge to judge individuals based on isolated incidents.
Peter Gatien views his narrative as a story of entrepreneurship interwoven with historical context. His two-decade reign in the nightclub industry, marked by owning four large clubs simultaneously without partners, was unprecedented. He attributes his success, in part, to the unique energy and creative spirit of New York City during that era, a city that, before Giuliani’s policies, fostered excitement, celebration, and artistic expression. Crucially, affordability played a significant role. In the 80s and 90s, Manhattan was accessible for many, including his staff, fostering a vibrant and diverse community within the city.
An intriguing aspect of Peter Gatien’s journey is his experience with Ayahuasca, which he describes as profoundly positive and transformative. He enthusiastically recommends it, comparing it to “watching a movie of your life,” offering a unique opportunity for self-reflection and insight. His daughter, Jennifer, facilitated this experience, highlighting their close bond. Their weekend retreat, dedicated to Ayahuasca, underscores their supportive and deeply connected relationship. Peter Gatien’s openness to such experiences reveals a willingness to explore different avenues of personal growth and understanding, further enriching the multifaceted story of Peter Gatien, the nightclub kingpin turned author.
