Portraits of Genius Friends

Rather than designating the works in this book as “portraits,” I would prefer to look at this collection as an assemblage of whimsical caricatures of celebrities whose names and photos have been headlined over the past two generations. Luminaries such as Norman Mailer, Pablo Picasso, Anais Nin, Philip Roth, and many other–mostly male–celebrities are recalled in this recollection of the author’s associations throughout her career. Noted for her work as a poet, author, and film director as well as for her collaboration on several musical productions, Sandra Hochman applauds her attachment to these megastars whom she met either through her first marriage to concert violinist Ivry Gitlis or through her literary activities. Each sketch of the prominent personality is accompanied by a short text specifying her relationship with the subject and mostly how the outlined artist enhanced the author’s career. Many of the images appear to be hastily sketched in ink, with splashes of pastel watercolors or childish crayon scrawls randomly setting the mood. The captured profiles reflect an impulsive impression, and the short accompanying accounts tend to reflect more of the author’s perception of her gifted ego than of the subject itself. Known for her relationship with Robert Lowell, their collaboration is lovingly noted. This edition provides a quick glimpse at several dozen culturally noteworthy personages who awaken nostalgia for times past.