46 pages • 1 hour read
M Train
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Book Brief
257
Autobiography / Memoir • Nonfiction
New York, New York • 2010s
2015
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
M Train by Patti Smith is a memoir that explores her marriage to Fred "Sonic" Smith and her experiences of grief following Fred's death and her brother's subsequent death. It details her travels across Central and South America, Europe, and Japan, her reflections on past friendships, and the impact of Hurricane Sandy on her life. This work is imbued with a poetic quality, reflecting on loss, memory, and resilience. The text focuses on grief and loss and references suicide and natural disasters.
Contemplative
Melancholic
Nostalgic
Bittersweet
Emotional
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
Patti Smith's M Train is widely praised for its poetic and introspective prose, reflecting deep personal musings and poignant narratives. Critics commend her evocative storytelling and vivid imagery. However, some find the book's fragmented structure challenging, noting it demands a patient and reflective reader. Overall, it's celebrated as a profound memoir for those who appreciate contemplative literary journeys.
Who Should Read M Train?
A reader who would enjoy M Train by Patti Smith is likely drawn to lyrical memoirs, meditative reflections on artistry, and poignant narratives of loss and memory. Fans of Just Kids by Smith, The Year of Magical Thinking by Joan Didion, or Wild by Cheryl Strayed will find similar appeal in Patti Smith's eloquent storytelling and introspective journey.
Fred “Sonic” Smith
Fred “Sonic” Smith
Patti Smith's late husband, who was a guitarist for MC5, remembered fondly throughout the memoir as an influential presence in her memories and dreams.
The Cowpoke
The Cowpoke
A mysterious figure appearing in Smith's dreams, offering cryptic wisdom about writing and life, symbolizing deeper aspects of her memory and loss.
Zak
Zak
A young barista at Café ’Ino who becomes Smith's friend, embodying a connection to her dream of owning a café and resilience in the face of adversity.
Smith’s Friends
Smith’s Friends
A collection of individuals Smith interacts with in her travels, including friends in New York and Japan, contributing to her sense of global connection amidst her solitude.
257
Autobiography / Memoir • Nonfiction
New York, New York • 2010s
2015
Adult
18+ years
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