Photo Credit: File Photo
Patti Smith extended her gratitude towards Taylor Swift for acknowledging her in the megastar's latest album, "The Tortured Poets Department." Sharing a glimpse into her appreciation, on Friday, April 19, the 77-year-old "Gloria" singer posted two captivating images on Instagram. These snapshots showcased her immersed in a book penned by the Welsh wordsmith Dylan Thomas, subtly alluding to Swift's lyrical nod to Smith in the titular track of her album.
Swift's Grammy-winning song resonated with the lyrics, "I laughed in your face and said, 'You're not Dylan Thomas / I'm not Patti Smith / This ain't the Chelsea Hotel / We're modern idiots.'" The monochrome photographs shared by Smith seemed to echo the visual aesthetic of Swift's recent musical endeavor. One picture captured Smith's beaming smile as she held up Thomas' book, while the other depicted her deeply engrossed in reading while seated.
Expressing her heartfelt appreciation in the Instagram caption, Smith conveyed, "This acknowledges the honor of being referenced alongside the esteemed Welsh poet Dylan Thomas. Thank you, Taylor." This isn't the first time Smith, an influential figure in the 1970s punk rock scene, has commended Swift, 34. In a 2019 interview with The New York Times, she empathized with Swift's perpetual public scrutiny, acknowledging the challenges of constant observation.
Smith continued to empathize, stating, "She's navigating her celebrity status admirably, and her intentions seem genuine. If her art prompts her devoted fans to broaden their perspectives, then its impact outweighs any criticisms." Smith's appreciation isn't the only reaction to Swift's lyrical tribute in her latest album. Swift also penned a song titled "Clara Bow," paying homage to the iconic actress from the silent film era of the 1920s. Bow's grandchildren expressed profound emotion upon hearing the track, underscoring its poignant connection to their ancestor's legacy.
Apart from Smith, Bow, and Thomas, Swift also acknowledged Lucy Dacus from Boygenius and her close friend and frequent musical collaborator Jack Antonoff in her latest musical venture.
