Junesical: “Let’s Talk About Love” by Carl Wilson

In June we switch on another sense and turn to our ears in search of profoundness we normally find in literature. This year we turn to greats but also to more questionable greats and the question of greatness itself. On whichever note we do land unknowns pleasures sure do await, so looking forward to any choice we make!

a) “Just Kids” by Patti Smith
A National Book Award winner and a masterpiece of memoir. This soulful, evocative look at the relationship between Patti Smith and Robert Mapplethorpe as they navigate the hunger and hustle of being young artists in New York City is a love letter to friendship, the pursuit of art, and the magic of a city that no longer exists.

b) “Faith, Hope and Carnage” by Nick Cave & Sean O’Hagan

Created from over forty hours of intimate conversation, this raw and transcendent exploration of Nick Cave’s inner life tackles the heavy weights of belief, art, music, and the transformative power of grief. It’s not just a book about a musician; it’s a profound meditation on how we find the will to create in the wake of catastrophic loss.

c) “Let’s Talk About Love: A Journey to the End of Taste” by Carl Wilson

Part of the acclaimed 33 1/3 series, this book uses Celine Dion’s polarizing fame as a lens to examine why we love what we love —and why we hate what others enjoy. Wilson dives into the concept of "good taste" and "schmaltzy" pop to challenge our musical snobbery and investigate the emotional social contracts we sign with our favorite idols.