Just Kids by Patti Smith and An Object of Beauty by Steve Martin

Just Kids, Patti Smith (3)

While some of the group gave this a rating of 4, and many found some fault with it and gave it a 3, we all agreed that it was not quite what we expected.  We all assumed that the decadence of Robert Maplethorpe’s photos eked out into their lives.  Surprisingly Patti Smith was quite innocent when it came to alcohol and drugs as she mainly abstained from both.  The story is far more about their touching relationship and growth as burgeoning artists.  Speaking of which, she name drops many artists and poets, this can become tiresome for anyone not familiar with those of that time.  There were a few shockers, one being a famous play-write and actor who is also an anonymous drummer and Patti Smith lover????.  Her narrative style has an interesting matter of fact quality as she discusses rubbing elbows with famous people in the same paragraph as having to use the bathroom in the next building (as they didn’t have facilities in their rented loft).  While we found issue with the tempo and believability of some of the passages, everyone was moved by the thoughtfulness of the ending and the summation of their relationship.  In the end of the day, with husband and new family, Patti was completely there for her ‘soul mate’ in artistry during his last days. 

An Object of Beauty, Steve Martin (2.5)

As much as I like and admire Steve Martin for his accomplishments, I have to say I found this book had some interesting elements, but was not outstanding.  I liked that it discussed art and printed the actual paintings in the book, but I felt something was missing from the narrative.  The voice is a ‘friend’ who discusses the story of a young woman who works in the New York galleries.  He describes the art scene and her attempts to move up in it.  The plot is not particularly compelling as you follow her through gallery openings, art auctions and her various sexual conquests.  Neither of the main characters is particularly likable nor are you very invested in what happens to them.  That being said, I enjoyed the look behind the curtain of the art world and the detailed description of artists and paintings.  As I re-read this quick review, I am quite sure that Sacaric will cry ‘foul’ with my original 3 rating and I am compelled to down-grade it to a 2.5.