The period 2017-2021 represents a complex chapter in David Irving's family relationships, marked by ongoing tensions with some family members while maintaining strong bonds with others. This period saw significant shifts in family roles, with Paloma Irving taking on increased responsibilities in business operations while navigating various family conflicts.
Supporting Role: Paloma consistently defended Irving's positions and managed family communications. She coordinated with storage facilities, handled business correspondence, and provided logistical support for Irving's tours and operations.
Business Integration: Based at 73 Princedale Road, Paloma became increasingly integrated into Irving's publishing and business operations, serving as both family coordinator and business partner.
Educational Focus: Jessica was pursuing studies at University College London (UCL), with Irving occasionally offering financial and academic guidance while maintaining somewhat formal communications.
Communication Patterns: Exchanges between Irving and Jessica during this period appear more measured and less frequent than with Paloma, suggesting some ongoing tensions or distance.
Access Limitations: Irving's 2017 instructions specifically limited access to storage facilities to "Paloma and her son Adam," while simultaneously expressing concerns about "too many inquisitive people."
Generational Tensions: The relationship appears strained, with Irving expressing wariness about Adam's involvement in family operations while acknowledging Paloma's maternal protective instincts.
Email Coordination: Much family communication occurred via email, with Paloma serving as the central coordinator. This allowed for documented exchanges but may have reduced spontaneous family interaction.
Geographic Separation: Irving's frequent travels to the US created distance that affected family dynamics, with some members (particularly Jessica) having limited contact during tour periods.
Role Definitions: Family members developed specific roles - Paloma as business coordinator, Bente as domestic partner, Jessica as independent adult daughter, and other family members in more distant supportive roles.
Generational Differences: The period shows evident tensions between Irving's traditional approaches and younger family members' perspectives, particularly visible in references to Adam and some communications with Jessica.
Business vs. Family Boundaries: As Paloma became more involved in business operations, the distinction between family relationships and professional relationships became increasingly blurred.
Financial Dependencies: Some family dynamics were complicated by financial arrangements, including Irving's support for various family members' expenses and housing arrangements.