Review of Wild West Village: Not a Memoir—Unless I Win an Oscar, … by Lola Kirke
From the moment I stumbled upon a guest post by Lola Kirke on Substack, I was captivated. The raw honesty about her journey wrapped in a desire to feel grown up struck a chord in me. I found myself anxiously following her social media, urging her to write something more substantial. So, when I heard the announcement of Wild West Village, I couldn’t contain my excitement. I preordered the audiobook and woke up early on Release Day, ready to immerse myself in the evocative world she crafted. Trust me when I say, the accents in her narration are a delight!
Kirke’s unyielding honesty, sharp wit, and palpable passion come together to paint an intricate portrait of her experiences—a young girl evolving into a woman, all while navigating the bustling, almost magical streets of New York City. The book beautifully encapsulates a quest for love: familial, romantic, artistic, and ultimately, self-love. Each essay sweeps the reader into her world, where laughter often mingles with a bittersweet ache, which I think is the hallmark of a truly great memoir—even if Kirke insists this isn’t one.
As I delved into the segmented nature of Wild West Village, I found it charmingly disjointed, which allowed me to digest each piece without losing the thread of the larger narrative. Some may find this style slightly disconnected, yet I appreciated how it offered refreshing bite-sized insights, perfect for those of us balancing busy lives. Reflecting on my own journey, particularly as someone slightly older than Kirke, I found solace and inspiration in her tales of reinvention in one’s thirties, resonating deeply within me.
And let’s not overlook Kirke’s taste in music and film! While I might heartily disagree with her stance on The Who, I find common ground in our mutual admiration for exquisite foreign film stars. This delightful juxtaposition of tastes adds to the authentic spirit of the writing, making it all the more relatable.
The bottom line? Lola Kirke has woven a tapestry of art that challenges and inspires. Her work across various mediums has broadened my horizons, and Wild West Village stands as a remarkable testament to her artistic journey. It’s a celebration for anyone grappling with self-identity or feeling the weight of their voice unrecognized. For me, this book felt like a heartfelt conversation with a friend, one that reminds us all of the importance of vulnerability in creativity.
Whether you’re a longtime fan of Kirke or someone merely curious about the intersections of art and self-discovery, Wild West Village is worth your time. This book is not just an afternoon read; it’s a beacon for those who sometimes wonder if their stories matter. It’s a resounding “yes.” I’m grateful for this book and even prouder to be a fan of an artist who continues to shape my perspective on creativity and connection.
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