Francine Prose, the acclaimed novelist and critic, is set to release her first memoir, “1974: A Personal History,” published by Harper in 2024. This work showcases Prose’s trademark exquisite writing style while providing a deeply personal account of her life during a pivotal year in American history.
In 1974, at the age of twenty-six, Prose was navigating significant life changes. She had just exited her marriage, published her debut novel, “Judah the Pious,” and was in the process of writing her third. Relocating to San Francisco, she reflects on this chapter with a sense of exhilaration and risk, stating, “I liked feeling free, alive and on edge, even a little bit afraid … I wanted to feel like an outlaw.” This period marked a transition for the sixties generation, who had once believed they could effectuate substantial change, only to confront the disillusionment of the seventies.
Central to her memoir is Prose’s relationship with Anthony Russo, a key figure in the anti-Vietnam War movement and one of the individuals responsible for leaking the Pentagon Papers. Captivated by Russo, she characterizes him as a unique personality but also captures his frustrations with the lack of recognition compared to Daniel Ellsberg. Their late-night drives in his old Buick provide Prose with a canvas to depict the city’s vibrant yet haunting atmosphere and to explore her personal attraction to Russo, built on shared interests in politics and storytelling.
Despite warnings from friends, Prose embraces the connection, finding joy in the unpredictable nature of their escapades. She recalls a significant moment during their initial outing, standing at the edge of the Sutro Baths, where she acknowledged the potential danger of her situation but felt fearless at the time. This tension encapsulates the longing for freedom many young adults experience.
The relationship ultimately fades, but Prose’s narrative intertwines her personal journey with broader historical events, such as Nixon’s resignation and the ongoing turmoil of the Vietnam War. As she recounts her experiences with Russo, Prose reflects on the lessons learned and the realizations about activism and agency. She emphasizes the importance of taking action, even in the face of potentially futile efforts, conveying a message of hope amid prevailing crises.
“1974: A Personal History” is a poignant and artfully crafted memoir that highlights Francine Prose’s evolution as a writer and captures a transformative era in American society.