Well, he was hardly a failure, living in a mansion in Hancock Park. I used to see him in that neighborhood, when I lived there, in a carriage house apartment, mind you.
He spoke to a group of youngsters, in a psych hospital classroom, in which I once worked. I believe he had some horrendous expeirences as a youth, and had compassion for those who were tormented. He was rather an odd duck, but I always admired his moxie.