M Train by Patti Smith is a collection of essays written later in her life while sitting in some of her favorite cafes around the world. Smith is one of my favorite writers/poets/musicians and spending a little time inside her head is always a joy.

There are reflections of her early life with Fred Sonic and their young children before his death, and pilgrimages Smith makes to Mexico City and Tangier, among other places around the world. Smith also shares inner wisdom gained during her dreams and conversations she has there with her unlikely companion, the cowpoke. Writers are the holiest of the holy to Smith and often her journeys take her to visit their graves.

The essays are accompanied by Smith’s signature Polaroids, each one a snapshot of an inner world that I, as a reader, am so grateful that she shared with us.