Just Kids

(c) Norman Sheeff, via

Earlier this week I finished Patti Smith's memoir Just Kids and cannot recommend it more.  A memoir of Smith's early years in New York as as emerging artist herself and as a companion and muse of the artist Robert Mapplethorpe, it is a beautiful, heartbreaking, and illuminating read.  There are so many amazing cultural phenomena and historical circumstances that Smith & Mapplethorpe were a part of -- the Hotel Chelsea, Max's Kansas City, Jimi Hendrix's Electric Lady Studio, CBGB -- that it just took my breath away.  But more than anything I enjoyed reading about the deep devotion and commitment Smith & Mapplethorpe had for each other.

Patti Smith & Robert Mapplethorpe, NYC 1977

© KATE SIMON, 1977  via

Also, while I am semi-familiar with various women musicians of the late-1960s and early 1970s, it was fascinating to learn about the evolution of Smith's art and her experience as a woman in the often male-dominated art world.  I don't want to say much more ... just read it and love it.  Lastly, download Smith's seminal album Horses - I had never heard it before.  OMG!