Synopses & Reviews
Auguries of Innocence is the first book of poetry from Patti Smith in more than a decade. It marks a major accomplishment from a poet and performer who has inscribed her vision of our world in powerful anthems, ballads, and lyrics. In this intimate and searing collection of poems, Smith joins in that great tradition of troubadours, journeymen, wordsmiths, and artists who respond to the world around them in fresh and original language. Her influences are eclectic and striking: Blake, Rimbaud, Picasso, Arbus, and Johnny Appleseed. Smith is an American original; her poems are oracles for our times.
Review
“[A] hidden jewel…Among her best.” Library Journal
Review
“The incendiary rock star mellows.” The Oregonian (Portland)
Review
“30 years after Horses, Smiths light is still burning bright.” San Francisco Chronicle
About the Author
Patti Smith is a writer, visual artist, and performer. Her New York Times bestselling book Just Kids was awarded the 2010 National Book Award for Nonfiction. She is the recipient of France's highest honor for a living artist, the Commandeur de l'Ordre des Arts et des Lettres, as well as the Polar Award, one of the most distinguished music prizes. Her album Horses was inducted into the Library of Congress National Recording Registry and is number 44 on Rolling Stone's 500 Greatest Albums of All Time. In 2008, Smith was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and in 2010 she received ASCAP's Founders Award for lifetime achievement. Her books include Witt, Babel, Woolgathering, The Coral Sea, Auguries of Innocence, and M Train.