I read much further into the book than we were required because I could not get enough of Patti Smith’s frank and simple style of writing. She is very candid about her lifestyle with Robert and provides a glimpse into the life of an artist during the 1960’s. Smith shed light on an entirely different world for me: a world of rebellion, disorientation and yet artistic genius. I greatly admire her decisiveness in leaving her parents’ home, living a homeless life in NYC at the beginning and further confronting all her struggles with diligence. When she desired to go to Paris, she simply began saving up money and she flew out to Paris. This kind of reckless character trait is very important to her being. Often we have great dreams, but fear to pursue them; Patti Smith did not fear to pursue her dreams.
Another aspect of the book that I would like to emphasize is that the book is not about Robert as it may seem. He is a bit of a whimsical, lost “Kid.” I believe that the book is about Patti Smith finding herself in life and creating meaning for herself. For a long time, she tends to emphasize the genius in the Robert and in the book she highlights his importance and her subordination. Though, I believe that she is the pure artist in this book and that she is the outmost important character in the book. Perhaps I will get a better impression of Robert as I continue reading.
My favorite picture of Patti Smith
-Angelika
I agree. When the book started with her in present day, she’s married with children but still close to Robert. As she goes into their past, I can’t quite see what it is that makes her so fascinated by him that she would write a book about their time together many years later. I kind of wonder what her husband thinks of it.
I LOVED IT! I was very familiar with Patti. But what I really enjoyed most, was her slice of life in New York City. I grew up there, and well-remember the sixties — but to see it through her eyes, and to share her experiences, was an amazing experience for me. To hear her talk about chatting with Jimi Hendrix in the Electric Ladyland studios put me in a trance. And btw, the Hotel Chelsea has been recently sold, gutted and undergoing a pure vanilla renovation. Never before have I written an author, but when I was finished, I sent her a note – thanking her for writing that book. and PS, if you liked this one — read “Life” by Keith Richards.