Camille
Poem
Echoes of the Forgotten
The blinking sound of my eyes, the pounding of my heart.
The white sterile room and simply being apart.
The unfamiliar faces, whom somehow, I know.
Fading echoes of a once vibrant, cherished past.
Familiar places now foreign and strange.
Names dance on the tip of my tongue, then flee.
Memories like shadows, following yet faintly.
Like whispers of the wind, thoughts come and go.
Each day, a puzzle, pieces scattered and lost.
Fading echoes of a once vibrant, cherished past,
Familiar places now foreign and strange.
Yet amongst the confusion, a flicker remains,
A spark of recognition, a momentary gain.
There is a face that lingers in the misty haze,
A glimmer of light through a memory’s maze.
A lover, a friend, a soul intertwined,
In the tangle of thoughts, forever in my mind.
Their laughter echoes in the silent halls.
A cherished memory, as the darkness falls.
So, in the twilight of a fading mind,
For through my mind may falter, and memories fade,
The essence of who I am will never truly evade.
Bio
I’m Millie, and I’m currently in Year 10. Writing has always been a passion of mine, and I recently wrote a poem about my grandmother, who has dementia. This poem is very special to me because it captures the emotional journey and the precious moments I share with her.
When I’m not writing, I enjoy running as well as hanging out with friends and family which often inspire my creative process. I hope to continue improving my writing skills and sharing my stories with the world.
Book Review
Just Kids by Patti Smith
‘Just Kids’ by Patti Smith is a moving and evocative memoir that captures the essence of a transformative era in New York City and the deep bond between two flourishing artists. The book, which won the National Book Award for Nonfiction in 2010, is a testament to Smith’s lyrical prose and her ability to weave a narrative that is both intimate and universal.
The memoir begins with Smith’s arrival in New York City in the late 1960s, a time when the city was a magnet for artists, musicians, and dreamers. She meets Robert Mapplethorpe, a young photographer, and their relationship becomes the heart of the book. Their bond is one of mutual inspiration and support, as they navigate the challenges of poverty, artistic ambition, and personal discovery. Smith’s portrayal of their relationship is tender and honest, capturing the complexities of love, friendship, and creative partnership.
One of the most striking aspects of ‘Just Kids’ is Smith’s vivid depiction of the culture of the time. The Chelsea Hotel, Max’s Kansas City, and other iconic locations come to life through her descriptions, providing a backdrop for the artistic and social revolutions of the era. Smith’s encounters with figures like Janis Joplin, Jimi Hendrix, and Allen Ginsberg add depth to the narrative, illustrating the interconnectedness of the artistic community.
Smith’s writing is both poetic and straightforward, reflecting her background as a musician and poet. Her prose is inspired with a sense of nostalgia and longing, yet it is also grounded in the gritty reality of her experiences. She does not shy away from the darker aspects of her journey, including Mapplethorpe’s struggle with his sexuality and his eventual battle with AIDS. These moments are handled with sensitivity and grace, adding a layer of emotional depth to the memoir.
The book is not just a chronicle of Smith’s and Mapplethorpe’s lives; it is also a meditation on the nature of art and the artist’s journey. Smith reflects on her own creative process and the sacrifices and triumphs that come with pursuing one’s passion. Her insights are both inspiring and sobering, offering a realistic portrayal of the artist’s life.
In conclusion, ‘Just Kids’ is a beautifully written memoir that captures the spirit of a past era and the enduring power of artistic collaboration. Patti Smith’s narrative is a tribute to her friendship with Robert Mapplethorpe and a celebration of their creative spirit. It is a must read for anyone interested in art, music and the power of friendship.