A Life Examined: patti Smith’s “Bread of Angels” Offers a Raw and Reflective Journey
Patti Smith’s new memoir, “Bread of Angels,” is a deeply personal exploration of a life lived with unwavering artistic conviction, marked by both soaring triumphs and profound loss. As reviewed by Laurie Haber, the book doesn’t shy away from the complexities of memory, questioning the reliability of childhood recollections while firmly establishing the early emergence of Smith’s unique artistic sensibility. Even as a young child, around age six, Smith demonstrated a precocious connection to art, salvaging Vogue magazines and finding resonance in their imagery alongside a simultaneous disconnect from conventional schooling. A formative visit to an art museum and exposure to Picasso solidified her path: she was destined to be an artist.
The memoir accelerates as Smith arrives in New York city,detailing a period fueled by talent and ambition. Haber notes the almost serendipitous nature of Smith’s early career, highlighting a network of supportive artists – photographers, poets, playwrights, and musicians - who fostered her growth. This period saw the blossoming of her creative partnerships, most notably with Robert Mapplethorpe, and introductions to literary giants like William Burroughs and Allen Ginsberg. Inspired by Arthur Rimbaud, Smith transitioned from writing poetry to performing it, eventually forming a musical partnership with Lenny Kaye.
Smith’s breakthrough came with the 1975 release of “Horses,” propelling her to international fame. Despite this success, she maintained a grounded perspective, prioritizing artistic integrity over commercial gain, creating music “for the art rats known and unknown, the marginalized, the shunned, the disowned.” A pivotal moment arrived with her relationship with Fred Sonic Smith, leading her to step away from her career at its peak – a decision driven by her own conviction, despite external counsel.
The memoir then shifts to a more intimate portrayal of domestic life with Fred, depicting a period of shared artistic passion and the joys of raising a family. Though, this tranquility is shattered by a series of devastating losses: first Robert Mapplethorpe, then Fred Sonic Smith, and later, her brother Todd. Haber emphasizes how these losses permeate the book,shaping Smith’s return to the stage with renewed purpose.
The final sections of ”Bread of Angels” are notably poignant, detailing Smith’s continued grief over the passing of further loved ones, including her parents and friends like Susan Sontag and Sam Shepard. Haber describes these pages as deeply moving, capturing Smith’s reflections on the arduous process of “shedding” – letting go of the past and accepting the cyclical nature of life and loss.
Ultimately, Smith concludes that while much must be relinquished, certain things remain invaluable: ”my wedding ring,” and “my children’s love.” “Bread of Angels” is presented as a raw and honest account of a life fully lived, a testament to the enduring power of art, love, and the courage to confront loss.
