Three-Martini Afternoons at the Ritz

Three-Martini Afternoons at the Ritz by Gail Crowther offers an intimate and richly detailed look into the intertwined lives of two of the 20^th century's most significant poets, Sylvia Plath and Anne Sexton. At the heart of this biography is the electrifying dynamic that developed between these two women after they met in a poetry workshop at Boston University. What began as a friendship soon morphed into a complex and competitive rivalry, fuelled by mutual admiration, jealousy, and personal tribulations.

Throughout their lives, Plath and Sexton navigated parallel paths marked by extraordinary literary achievements and personal struggles with mental illness, self-doubt, and tumultuous relationships. Their regular meetings at the Ritz-Carlton hotel, where they often indulged in martinis and fervent discussions on topics ranging from their poetic inspirations to deep personal issues, further cemented their unique bond. These gatherings became a sanctuary where they could confront their inner demons and express their artistic frustrations and ambitions.

Crowther's narrative delves deep into the lives of both poets, tracking their evolution from budding writers to literary icons whose works continue to resonate. The book moves beyond mere biography to reflect on the broader cultural and societal confines that shaped and, at times, confined Plath and Sexton. Through meticulous research and unprecedented access to personal archives, Crowther paints a vivid portrait of these two women not only as poets but as individuals navigating an often unforgiving world.

Three-Martini Afternoons at the Ritz is more than a dual biography; it is an erudite exploration of the ways in which Sylvia Plath and Anne Sexton influenced each other and the world of poetry. The book offers readers a compelling insight into the highs and lows of their careers and personal lives, bringing to light the myriad factors that contributed to their enduring legacies. It captures the essence of their camaraderie and competition, illustrating how their interactions spurred some of the most profound poetic works of their era.

This biography has garnered high praise from critics, with Town & Country highlighting its exploration of the poets' friendship and rivalry in fascinating detail. Additionally, Library Journal described it as "deliriously fast-paced and erudite," leaving readers yearning for the power encapsulated in the verses of these two literary giants. For anyone interested in the intricate tapestry of literary history and the personal stories behind poetic genius, Three-Martini Afternoons at the Ritz is an essential read.