Choose Life
Between ’65 and ’66, Janis found solace in the counsel of Bernard Giarritano, a psychiatric social worker based in Beaumont, Texas. He painted a vivid picture of Janis to biographer Myra Friedman, labeling her as “diffused”. Myra added her own flair, describing Janis as “spewing, splattering, splaying all over, without a center to hold…” Janis’ greatest fear was her career success luring her back into the clutches of drugs. Giarritano worked tirelessly to dispel this fear, assuring her that talent didn’t require substance abuse.
Janis teetered on the precipice of a timeless dilemma. Should she surrender to the predictable tranquility of secretarial work, conforming to the expectations of Port Arthur’s womenfolk, then nestle into the roles of wife and mother? Or should she embrace the intoxicating allure of stardom, courting the dangerous possibility of a relapse into narcotics? Would you opt for a lengthy, secure, yet uninspiring existence as a secretary, or would you prefer a fleeting, exhilarating life as a legendary singer?