Patti Smith, a legendary figure in the world of music and literature, has always been a beacon of artistic integrity. Her influence can be seen in the works of many contemporary artists, including Dua Lipa, who referenced her in her track "The Tortured Poets Department," singing: "You're not Dylan Thomas, I'm not Patti Smith." Fifty years after the release of her groundbreaking album Horses, Smith is making a return to the spotlight with a new memoir titled Bread of Angels. This book offers an intimate look into her life, filled with vivid memories and reflections on her journey as an artist.
A Dream That Became a Book
The idea for Bread of Angels came to Smith in a dream, a moment that she describes as both magical and meaningful. The memoir serves as a portrait of an artist who was deeply embedded in New York's counter-cultural scene during the 1970s. She was surrounded by icons like Bob Dylan, Bruce Springsteen, and poet William Burroughs, all of whom shaped her creative path. During this time, she performed at CBGB, though she recalls that the club wasn't yet legendary—it was still largely unknown.
Smith was known for her refusal to compromise her artistic vision to male record producers. "I had a lot of armor and it wasn't easily pierced," she says, reflecting on her early career. Her first album, Horses, resonated with those who felt marginalized, especially in a time when being openly gay could lead to being disowned by family. New York, she notes, was full of people who had been cast out from their homes.
A Legacy of Resistance and Love
Smith’s work has always carried a message of resistance and empowerment. Her song People Have the Power, written with her late husband Fred 'Sonic' Smith, was a call to action for future generations. "It was his concept," she explains, "and it was for the people of the future, for marches, for protest, for just feeling some strength." Even today, she hears the song sung spontaneously by crowds, a testament to its enduring impact.
The loss of Fred, who passed away over 30 years ago, remains a profound sorrow for Smith. Yet, she finds solace in knowing that his vision lives on. She also reflects on another iconic song, Because the Night, which was inspired by a moment of waiting for Fred to call. The lyrics, including lines like "Have I doubt when I'm alone? Love is a ring, the telephone," capture the emotional depth of their relationship.
A Life Shaped by Loss and Love
Smith’s memoir is more than just a recounting of her career; it is a love letter to the people who shaped her life. She dedicates the book to her parents, siblings, husband, and others who played a role in her journey. However, her life has been marked by deep losses, including the deaths of her best friend, photographer Robert Mapplethorpe, and her beloved brother Todd. These experiences have left a lasting mark on her, but they have also fueled her creativity and resilience.
A Journey Through Art and Memory
In Bread of Angels, Smith writes about her early life with vivid detail. She grew up moving frequently, living in unstable conditions, and facing health challenges from a young age. Despite these hardships, she developed a passion for art and poetry. At just seven years old, she was captivated by Vogue magazines and the world of contemporary photography. Later, during a bout of illness, she found solace in listening to Puccini's Madame Butterfly, which she believes helped her recover.
Her father, who took her to the Philadelphia Museum of Art, introduced her to the works of Picasso, sparking a lifelong love for visual art. Smith also shares a surprising revelation about her heritage. After her parents’ deaths, she discovered through a DNA test that her biological father was different from the man she had always known. This discovery, while emotionally challenging, gave her a deeper understanding of herself and her roots.
An Uncompromising Spirit
Throughout her career, Smith has remained true to her artistic vision. Her photographs from the 1970s, often described as gender-defying, captured the essence of countercultural cool. When we met, she revealed a warm and thoughtful side, one that is deeply rooted in her love for family and art. Her losses have shaped her, but so has her poetic artistry, which continues to inspire generations.
A Voice for the Next Generation
Smith is also a strong advocate for younger female artists, including Dua Lipa and Taylor Swift. She praises them for their contributions to the music industry, noting that it is now dominated by women. "They're doing a good job," she says, referring to the resilience and strength of these artists.
Bread of Angels by Patti Smith is published on 4 November.