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Just Kids
320 pages, 2010
The summer John Coltrane died, the summer of love and riots, Patti Smith and her boyfriend Robert Mapplethorpe wandered the streets of New York City. They made their way from Coney Island to Forty-Second Street, then to Max's Kansas City, where the young artists would sometimes meet Warhol's inner circle. That year, Smith and Mapplethorpe moved into the Hotel Chelsea.
As artists began to influence each other and coalesce into communities, the two young people found a place in the world of various art forms. It was a time of heightened awareness—dance, music, poetry, film—and in this milieu, two kids made a pact to take care of each other.
In 'Just Kids', Patti Smith beautifully portrays her deep friendship with Robert Mapplethorpe. Their bond is a testament to the power of friendship and how it can shape our lives. It's a reminder that friendships can be as impactful as romantic relationships, if not more.
Smith doesn't shy away from showing the struggles she and Mapplethorpe faced in their artistic pursuits. They lived in poverty and faced rejection, but they never gave up. This book encourages you to keep going, even when the going gets tough.
The book gives you a glimpse into the vibrant and influential 70s New York art scene. It's fascinating to see how this environment shaped Smith and Mapplethorpe's work. If you're interested in art history, you'll definitely want to check this out.
Smith's journey of self-discovery is a major theme in 'Just Kids'. She explores her identity as an artist, a woman, and a friend. It's a reminder that it's okay to not have everything figured out and that life is a journey of self-discovery.
Despite the hardships she faced, Smith remained resilient. She faced rejection, poverty, and personal loss, but she never let these challenges stop her from pursuing her dreams. Her resilience is truly inspiring and a reminder that we too can overcome our challenges.
Quotes 5
Just Kids is a fascinating exploration of the intersection of art, love, and friendship. It's a must-read for anyone interested in the creative process.
Robert Christgau - Music journalist, criticJust Kids is a poignant and beautifully crafted memoir. It's a testament to Patti Smith's talent as a writer and her enduring friendship with Robert Mapplethorpe.
Michiko Kakutani - Literary critic, Pulitzer winnerJust Kids is a wonderful, enchanting book about a time that was both darker and more innocent than now. It's an honest, touching, and ultimately enlightening read.
Neil Gaiman - Author, screenwriterJust Kids is a deeply moving and evocative memoir. It's a love letter to a time and place, and to the man who shared it with her.
Ann Powers - Music critic, authorJust Kids is a beautiful, heartbreaking book. It's a testament to the power of love, friendship, and art.
Rosanne Cash - Singer-songwriter, author
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