Hello everyone,
Today is Jean Genet’s birthday. I am reading A Thief’s Journal before turning in, and thinking of how much this book inspired me to write when I was 21. Reading a few lines, especially There is a close relationship between flowers and convicts, brought to mind Robert Mapplethorpe’s flowers.
I have included Robert’ photograph below as Genet was partial to roses. I used to read Genet to Robert when we were young. It remains one of my favorite memories of our life in Brooklyn. I am in New York, resting and recovering, gathering strength, glad to be home….
Earlier today my daughter Jesse Paris Smith launched her own Substack. I am very proud of her accomplishments and looking forward to the blossoming of her site.
So welcome Jesse, happy birthday Jean Genet and a beautiful night to all.
I hope you recover soon and thank you for this beautiful and poignant reading...
I’ve seen Patti countless times. . I lived in New York for a while and then 23 years in London UK. She performed often there - most memorable was a charity performance at a very old church in need of repair. I took my Twelve year old daughter who asked if I to ought Patti would sing the words ‘Jesus died for somebody’s sins but not mine’ as it was a
Church. I said I suspected she would. And sure enough she did. My daughter was delighted. Next day I heard her tell a friend’ everyone in my class went to see the Spice girls. My mom took me to see Patti Smith!’ Lol