Three-Martini Afternoons at the Ritz: The Rebellion of Sylvia Plath & Anne Sexton

Sylvia Plath and Anne Sexton's friendship and rivalry, as well as their titular cocktails at a Boston hotel, are explored in detail in this biography. They became iconic figures in literature, leading parallel lives haunted by mental illness, suicide attempts, self-doubt, and difficult personal relationships. Three-Martini Afternoons at the Ritz is a highly recommended book that delves into their power of poetry.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 304 pages
Publication date: 17 March 2022
Publisher: Simon & Schuster

In this captivating and deeply empathetic biography, we delve into the intricate friendship and fierce rivalry that intertwined the lives of two remarkable poets of the 20th century: Sylvia Plath and Anne Sexton. Their story, spanning several decades, is explored in fascinating detail, revealing the complex interplay of emotions, including jealousy, respect, and a shared passion for poetry.

Sylvia Plath and Anne Sexton first met at a poetry workshop at Boston University, where their mutual admiration for literature sparked a connection that quickly blossomed into a friendship. However, their bond was soon overshadowed by a fierce rivalry fueled by jealousy and a deep sense of competition.

Despite their differences, Plath and Sexton shared many similarities, including their struggles with mental illness, suicide attempts, self-doubt, and difficult personal relationships. They often met weekly at the Ritz Hotel in Boston, where they would indulge in martini meetings, discussing a wide range of topics, from sex to suicide. These meetings were not only a source of intellectual stimulation but also a way for them to express their fears, desires, and insecurities.

Their relationship was characterized by a complex mix of admiration, respect, and rivalry. Plath, known for her raw and confessional poetry, was deeply influenced by Sexton's bold and experimental style. Sexton, in turn, was impressed by Plath's talent and her ability to delve into the darkest depths of the human psyche.

However, their friendship was also marked by periods of tension and conflict. Plath's intense jealousy and insecurity often led her to compare herself to Sexton, and she felt threatened by her friend's success and popularity. Sexton, on the other hand, could be prickly and confrontational, and her struggles with mental illness and addiction sometimes made her difficult to be around.

Despite their challenges, Plath and Sexton continued to support and inspire each other's artistic endeavors. They exchanged letters, poems, and drafts, providing each other with critical feedback and encouragement. Their friendship was a testament to the power of literature to connect people across boundaries and to provide solace and understanding in times of darkness.

In Three-Martini Afternoons at the Ritz, author Jennifer Schuessler has done an exceptional job of delving into the lives of Plath and Sexton, using extensive research and unprecedented archival access. The book offers a vivid and detailed account of their friendship and rivalry, providing a deeper understanding of these two iconic poets and their impact on the literary world.

One of the standout features of the book is its fast-paced and erudite style. Schuessler brings the characters to life with vivid prose and sharp insights, making the reader feel as if they are right there with Plath and Sexton during their martini meetings and their struggles with mental illness. The book is also filled with quotes from Plath and Sexton's poetry, which provide a glimpse into their creative process and the depth of their emotional expression.

Three-Martini Afternoons at the Ritz is highly recommended for anyone interested in poetry, literature, or the lives of remarkable women. It offers a captivating and nuanced portrayal of Plath and Sexton, shedding light on their complex relationship and their enduring legacy. This book will leave readers hungry for more of what these two literary comets burned with: the power of a little poetry.

Weight: 296g
Dimension: 154 x 228 x 24 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781982138424