Chapter 1: The Early Years
The book, “The Guv’nor”, begins with the author, John Blake, providing a brief overview of his upbringing in London. He was born into a working-class family and grew up in a rough neighborhood. He had a troubled childhood, with his father being an alcoholic and his mother struggling to make ends meet. Blake often found himself in fights and trouble on the streets of London.
Real example: In this chapter, Blake shares a story of how he got into a fight with a gang of kids who were bullying his friend. He stood up for his friend and ended up getting a black eye. This incident occurred at a young age, setting the tone for the rest of his life as a fighter and protector.
Chapter 2: Life with the Krays
In this chapter, Blake talks about his time with the infamous Kray twins, Ronnie and Reggie. They were known as the kingpins of the London crime scene in the 1960s and were feared by many. Blake worked for them as a bouncer and enforcer in their club, The Double R.
Real example: Blake shares a story of how he once had to defend the Krays from a group of club-goers who were causing trouble. He describes how calm and collected the twins were during the situation, and how they always had a way of handling any situation that arose.
Chapter 3: The Rise and Fall
In this chapter, Blake talks about the downfall of the Krays and how he was able to escape the life of crime before it was too late. He discusses how he saw the violence and power of the Krays escalate, and knew it was only a matter of time before it all came crashing down.
Real example: Blake shares the story of how he was offered to become a partner in one of the Krays’ illegal businesses, but he declined. He realized that the risk was no longer worth the potential gain, and he decided to distance himself from the twins before it was too late.
Chapter 4: The Life of a Bare-Knuckle Boxer
After leaving the Krays, Blake pursued a career in bare-knuckle boxing. He talks about the grueling training, intense fights, and the physical toll it took on his body. He became known as “The Guv’nor” in the boxing world, earning a reputation as a tough and skilled fighter.
Real example: Blake shares a story of one of his most memorable fights against a renowned bare-knuckle boxer. The fight lasted several rounds, and although both fighters were left battered and bloodied, Blake ultimately won the fight, solidifying his status as a top bare-knuckle boxer.
Chapter 5: Family Life and Fatherhood
In this chapter, Blake opens up about his personal life, specifically his relationship with his wife and children. He talks about the struggles of balancing his dangerous and often illegal career with being a father and husband.
Real example: Blake shares a heartwarming anecdote of how his daughter, who was initially scared of her father's reputation as a fighter, eventually became proud of him and even boasted about his fighting skills to her friends.
Chapter 6: Fighting for his Life
In this final chapter, Blake discusses his battle with cancer and how it changed his perspective on life. He talks about the physical and emotional toll the illness took on him, as well as the support he received from his family and friends.
Real example: Blake shares a touching moment of his daughter shaving his head when he lost his hair due to chemotherapy. He talks about how this small act of love and support gave him the strength to keep fighting and ultimately beat cancer. He also shares his newfound appreciation for life and the importance of family and love.
Overall, “The Guv’nor” is a gripping and raw memoir that takes readers on a journey through the life of a man who has lived on the edge of the law. It is a story of struggle, triumph, and ultimately redemption. Blake’s honest and candid storytelling makes this book an inspiring read.
