Book Review: Just Kids

Patti Smith, also known as the "Godmother of Punk" is a singer-songwriter and visual artist who found her way on the streets of New York in the late 1960's and early 70's.  Probably her most well known song is Because the Night co-written by Bruce Springsteen.

In the summer of 1996 my mother played the song Summer Cannibals from Smith's Gone Again album over and over again with the volume cranked up full blast.  Let's just say that didn't exactly facilitate an interest in her music for me.  However, on one of our trips to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, Walter and I  watched a film in which she spoke about music as art.  She was clearly passionate, focused and eccentric.

Her book, Just Kids,  is a tribute to her relationship with photographer Robert Maplethorpe.  (Brace yourself if you google for images of his work, and don't use a public computer! ) They met in 1969 before either of them gained recognition or fame and nurtured each other's artistic passions.  Both rose to success and despite the ending of their intimate relationship they remained extremely close.  In fact, their relationship seemed an extraordinary bond that transcended sexuality, circumstances and everything that life brings.  The full circle of their story is beautifully unfolded by Smith and then tied back up again with a delicate violet ribbon.