I just enjoyed your video, its pace and casualness are relaxing while you nevertheless remain engaging to listen to.
I spotted you entering and then sitting in the back of the Chapel in Villefranche that was decorated by Jean Cocteau--I'm assuming that it was during this trip. The guide was speaking quickly to a small group of French tourists who were very much taken by her narration and had many questions for her. I wondered if you speak French and pondered whether I should approach and say hi, or summarise the guide's comments if you're not a French speaker. I demurred as I supposed you'd prefer to be left alone to admire the art in the lovely place.
I'd not been aware of your engagement in Arles ... will you be back to my part of the world some time? I'll subscribe here and hopefully not miss any future activities in France.
I can't believe THE Patti Smith is on Substack. I know comments like this are a dime a dozen in your interactions, but I am 61 years old and your music and poetry has been so meaningful to me- and also sustaining through so many dark periods of my life.
My daughter has a board game that’s called bet you can’t say Um ..😆😻 ooh I loved Helena in Alice in wonderland ! I hope you got to see the wetlands ..and I’m sure the wetlands of your mind will be fruitful!!! Xo Lps ♥️
Patti, I know this is going to sound Iike a silly question, but as a person who has traveled extensively, you might be able to give a really good answer, but what is essential to pack for a month away? The reason I ask is that always have a tendency to pack too much for short trips and I’m afraid I’d need a truck for a longer trip if I followed my usual custom. Thanks in advance, and love you. 😊
🥰🥰👏🏿👏🏿👏🏿 I love this. Your sharing about your daily life, your um-Bria “ums.” 😉… I have wondered so much about what the logistics of your life “look like.” The logistics of traveling & all the movement, connecting, performances you do. You inspire. Um, 😉 Thank you. Truly. 🙏🏿
Hello Patti. It’s the kind of message that feels like a quick note scribbled before heading out the door, warm and unpretentious.
There’s a gentle charm in the way she talks about leaving for Arles, as if she’s stepping into a small adventure with a light heart.
The mention of Jesse’s birthday and their ferry ride gives the whole piece a soft, lived‑in tenderness — a reminder of how simple days can stay with us.
I felt the sincerity in her hope that everyone stays healthy and keeps doing good work; it reads as genuine care rather than a polite sign‑off.
Her words about Venezuela carry a quiet weight, acknowledging suffering without turning it into a grand gesture.
The idea that “there are no small efforts” feels like a gentle encouragement, a reminder that kindness matters even when it seems modest.
There’s something comforting in her promise to send another message soon, as if she’s keeping a thread of connection alive while she travels.
The photo of her and Jesse on the ferry lingers in the mind — two people sharing a simple moment before going their separate ways.
The whole note reads like a postcard from someone who notices the world deeply, even in passing.
By the end, you’re left with a sense of quiet movement — a life in transit, but lived with intention and warmth.
Hi Patti,
I just enjoyed your video, its pace and casualness are relaxing while you nevertheless remain engaging to listen to.
I spotted you entering and then sitting in the back of the Chapel in Villefranche that was decorated by Jean Cocteau--I'm assuming that it was during this trip. The guide was speaking quickly to a small group of French tourists who were very much taken by her narration and had many questions for her. I wondered if you speak French and pondered whether I should approach and say hi, or summarise the guide's comments if you're not a French speaker. I demurred as I supposed you'd prefer to be left alone to admire the art in the lovely place.
I'd not been aware of your engagement in Arles ... will you be back to my part of the world some time? I'll subscribe here and hopefully not miss any future activities in France.
John
Enjoyed this very much.
Bookmarked for another podcast: https://open.spotify.com/episode/07rcljcbbLG05ooyeGjXP9?si=qC0lRtZZQgCzqTL8qCt9qw&utm_source=copy-link
I can't believe THE Patti Smith is on Substack. I know comments like this are a dime a dozen in your interactions, but I am 61 years old and your music and poetry has been so meaningful to me- and also sustaining through so many dark periods of my life.
You could say “um” for 45 minutes straight and I’d still listen
yes! lol.
My daughter has a board game that’s called bet you can’t say Um ..😆😻 ooh I loved Helena in Alice in wonderland ! I hope you got to see the wetlands ..and I’m sure the wetlands of your mind will be fruitful!!! Xo Lps ♥️
Thank you, Pati. I love the thought of you in Arles with the spirit of Vincent!
Such kind words.
Your post makes me wonder if Pink Floyd's album Ummagumma was misheard and should be Magumma
Ah, I know I'm late but safe travels and stay as cool as possible in the heat!
you are amazing. the only song I ever danced to on the deserted dance floor was GLORIA and they clapped even though I can't dance. thankyou xxxSusan
Stay hydrated my friend!🙏💕
Patti, I know this is going to sound Iike a silly question, but as a person who has traveled extensively, you might be able to give a really good answer, but what is essential to pack for a month away? The reason I ask is that always have a tendency to pack too much for short trips and I’m afraid I’d need a truck for a longer trip if I followed my usual custom. Thanks in advance, and love you. 😊
🥰🥰👏🏿👏🏿👏🏿 I love this. Your sharing about your daily life, your um-Bria “ums.” 😉… I have wondered so much about what the logistics of your life “look like.” The logistics of traveling & all the movement, connecting, performances you do. You inspire. Um, 😉 Thank you. Truly. 🙏🏿
No worries about “um”. It’s slips into many people’s vocabulary and no one will judge you because you are awesome! 😃✌🏻❤️🎶🎶🎶
Hello Patti. It’s the kind of message that feels like a quick note scribbled before heading out the door, warm and unpretentious.
There’s a gentle charm in the way she talks about leaving for Arles, as if she’s stepping into a small adventure with a light heart.
The mention of Jesse’s birthday and their ferry ride gives the whole piece a soft, lived‑in tenderness — a reminder of how simple days can stay with us.
I felt the sincerity in her hope that everyone stays healthy and keeps doing good work; it reads as genuine care rather than a polite sign‑off.
Her words about Venezuela carry a quiet weight, acknowledging suffering without turning it into a grand gesture.
The idea that “there are no small efforts” feels like a gentle encouragement, a reminder that kindness matters even when it seems modest.
There’s something comforting in her promise to send another message soon, as if she’s keeping a thread of connection alive while she travels.
The photo of her and Jesse on the ferry lingers in the mind — two people sharing a simple moment before going their separate ways.
The whole note reads like a postcard from someone who notices the world deeply, even in passing.
By the end, you’re left with a sense of quiet movement — a life in transit, but lived with intention and warmth.
Have save trip and see you on Wednesday in Utrecht! I am so exited to see you for the third time!