Patti Smith, an iconic figure in music and literature, was easily recognizable even from behind as she stood on a downtown Manhattan sidewalk on a late summer afternoon. Dressed casually in rolled-up jeans, white high-tops, and a black blazer, topped with a wool cap to ward off the cool air, she embodied her unique style. Our meeting point was a gallery owned by her friends, but we found ourselves temporarily locked out. Once inside, we settled into a conversation about her anticipated memoir, “Bread of Angels.”
As she approaches her 79th birthday in December, Smith is gearing up for a remarkable fall, including the release of her new memoir and an international concert tour to commemorate the 50th anniversary of her groundbreaking album, “Horses.” Reflecting on her creative journey over six decades, Smith’s work encompasses poetry, performance, memoir, painting, and photography, ultimately earning her induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and recognition with a National Book Award. A standout lyric from “Horses” captures her persistent spirit: “People say, ‘Beware,’ but I don’t care.”
In her memoir, Smith shares how early experiences shaped her identity as an artist. A transformative moment arose during Bible study in her youth, where she contemplated the fate of art in a world increasingly focused on absolutes. Influenced by her father’s encouragement to question norms, she became enamored with art, but the restrictions of her family’s faith dissuaded her from her religious affiliation, driving her into the arms of creativity.
Throughout our conversation, Smith’s eclectic interests revealed her zest for life. Daily, she engages with a variety of topics, including current events, literature, and pop culture, which she adeptly weaves into her work and public persona. With a significant following on social media, she connects with fans while sharing her thoughts on various subjects, from historical figures to her beloved cat.
As we enjoyed oat-milk matcha lattes on a green velvet couch, it was clear to see how much New York City had changed since Smith’s arrival in 1967. Her earlier memoir, “Just Kids,” chronicled a vibrant yet tumultuous period of her life, capturing the essence of youthful ambition and love against the backdrop of the artistic milieu of the time. This latest memoir, “Bread of Angels,” delves into the complexities of adulthood, touching upon her marriage, motherhood, and the painful reality of loss.
Although “Just Kids” centered on themes of innocence and artistic exploration, “Bread of Angels” digs deeper into who she has become since then. It was through writing this memoir that Smith uncovered hidden truths about her family that challenged her self-perception, prompting a re-examination of her life narrative.
A key theme emerging in Smith’s work is her ability to defy expectations and her commitment to artistic integrity over conventional success. Her music blends various influences with bold lyrics that invite reflection and introspection. Notable decisions throughout her career, such as rejecting commercial demands for airplay-friendly content, highlight her fierce dedication to authenticity.
In reflecting on her personal experiences, Smith recounts her relationship with her late husband, Fred “Sonic” Smith, and their subsequent family life. Despite stepping back from the limelight during their years in Michigan, she maintained a steady commitment to her craft. The loss of her husband and brother marked profound turning points in her life, yet they propelled her toward new creative endeavors.
Smith’s desire to connect with her readers on a profound level remains central to her work. In “Bread of Angels,” she contemplates the complexities of existence and the notion of belonging, ultimately asserting the universal experience of displacement that many individuals face.
As we concluded our discussion, Smith expressed her aspirations for future projects, hinting at explorations beyond memoir into fiction. Despite her age, her spirit remains youthful and vibrant, gracefully blending the lessons of lived experiences with her relentless passion for storytelling and artistic exploration.
In a world that often feels fragmented, Smith’s message resonates: embrace creativity, defy conventions, and remain true to oneself. Her continuing journey serves not only as an inspiration for her audience but as a testament to the transformative power of art and the resilience of the human spirit.