A lively atmosphere during the Patti Smith performance at the New York Book Fair.
On April 5, 2024, the ABAA New York International Antiquarian Book Fair became unforgettable as legendary artist Patti Smith and her daughter Jesse performed unexpectedly. The event, showcasing over 200 exhibitors, blended literary treasures with live music, creating a vibrant atmosphere for attendees. Smith’s heartfelt reading of Ginsberg’s poem, along with a story about a rare Charlotte Brontë manuscript, highlighted the cultural significance of the fair. This surprise performance emphasizes the connections fostered through literature and the celebration of the arts.
It was an exciting day for book lovers and music enthusiasts alike in New York City on April 5, 2024! The 65th edition of the ABAA New York International Antiquarian Book Fair turned into something truly special when legendary artist Patti Smith, along with her talented daughter, Jesse Paris Smith, took the stage for an unexpected performance. This surprise show had everyone buzzing, creating a blend of literary and musical joy that attendees would be talking about for quite some time.
The ABAA New York International Antiquarian Book Fair is no small affair. Recognized as a major cultural event, this year’s fair attracted over 200 exhibitors from all corners of the globe. These exhibitors presented a treasure trove of literary items, each with its own story and value, ranging from inexpensive collectibles to rare masterpieces worth millions. It’s a paradise for book worms and collectors!
Patti Smith and her family have long been fans of this fantastic event, and their dedication shined through during the performance. Jesse Paris Smith, who serves as an ambassador for this year’s fair, expressed their commitment to promoting the festival and enhancing its visibility. The ambassador program, which kicked off last year, welcomed eight notable figures, creating a sense of community among the literary stars.
Diving right into the performance, the Smiths turned the mid-morning hours electrifying. They took a moment to highlight two of their favorite exhibitors: Henry Wessels from James Cummins Bookseller and the ever-enchanting Sanctuary Books. Patti Smith began the show with a heartfelt reading of Allen Ginsberg’s poem “A Supermarket in California” to commemorate the anniversary of Ginsberg’s passing. This choice perfectly set the tone, bridging the world of poetry with the crowd.
During the performance, the audience was treated to an enthralling story about a rare Charlotte Brontë manuscript, graciously presented by Henry Wessels. This manuscript, which once belonged to a private collector in London, contains poems penned by the brilliant Brontë when she was just 13 years old. The audience learned that this remarkable book is set to be published and become available for all on April 21, 2024. Imagine holding a piece of history right in your hands!
In a delightful twist, Patti also generously shared several poems from the aforementioned manuscript during the show, weaving the musical moment with the rich literary heritage. As the performance drew to a close, she dedicated an emotional song titled “Wing” to her daughter, leaving the audience in awe of the tight-knit bond and shared passion for the arts that radiate between them.
The New York International Antiquarian Book Fair ran from April 3 to April 6, 2024, featuring audiences that were eager to rummage through the piles of rare books and collectibles. The surprise performance by the Smiths beautifully highlighted not just the significance of the fair, but also the connections fostered through the antiquarian community and the world of literature. It was a heartwarming reminder of how art can transcend generations and bring people together.
Patti Smith has been a prominent advocate for literary and artistic communities for more than 50 years. Her ongoing commitment to supporting these spaces reflects the heart of what the fair represents: a celebration of stories, creativity, and the deep connections among those who share a passion for the written word. This year’s event was one for the books, quite literally!
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