Patti Smith, the iconic figure of rock and poetry, continues to inspire generations with her unwavering spirit and profound artistry. Recently, she reflected on her journey and the influence of those around her in a candid interview, coinciding with the release of her new memoir, “Bread of Angels.” Smith’s resurgence in the spotlight comes after her Horses 50th Anniversary Tour, where she was moved by the presence of young fans who know the lyrics to her timeless songs.
The legendary artist, known for her groundbreaking album “Horses,” shared that the memoir originated from a dream, capturing the essence of her life woven through the counter-cultural scene of the 1970s. During this era, she connected with luminaries like Bob Dylan and Bruce Springsteen, often standing firm in her artistic choices amidst a male-dominated music industry. Smith recalls her early performances at CBGBs, which later became a cornerstone of punk rock culture, emphasizing the importance of her role in it all.
Through her music, she reached out to the marginalized, highlighting the plight of youth who felt abandoned in society. Smith’s poignant reflections during her London concert underscored her commitment to resonating with audiences of all ages, leaving her feeling validated and purposeful as an artist.
Her ability to invoke emotion is evident in her anthem “People Have the Power,” co-written with her late husband, Fred ‘Sonic’ Smith, which embodies a call to action for social change. The song’s legacy has only grown, as Smith has witnessed it resonate spontaneously at protest marches—a source of pride mixed with heartache, as she reflects on Fred’s absence.
In “Bread of Angels,” Smith offers what she describes as a love letter to her family and friends who have shaped her existence. It explores the profound love for her late husband and her best friend, photographer Robert Mapplethorpe, both of whom she lost tragically young. The memoir also delves into her complex upbringing, marked by instability and a deep yearning for artistic expression. She reflects on her childhood fascination with literature and photography, asserting that these influences sculpted her path.
Among her many revelations, Smith discovers unexpected truths about her heritage through a DNA test, learning about a biological father she never knew. This newfound knowledge has prompted her to reconsider her identity, recognizing the parallel traits and attitudes she shares with this part of her family.
As a trailblazer, Patti Smith has set the stage for contemporary female artists including Dua Lipa and Taylor Swift, whose work she admires. Her unwavering support for their endeavors in a largely female-dominated music industry speaks volumes about her commitment to empowering the next generation.
Smith’s ongoing artistic journey, infused with love, loss, and resilience, reinforces her status as a cultural icon whose legacy continues to shape and inspire the world around her.