MUSIC—Patti Smith is a goddamned national treasure. Not only is she a kickass musician, she’s also an artist, poet, and a celebrated memoirist of her friendship with artist Robert Mapplethorpe in Just Kids, a book that won her the National Book Award. She’s also a style icon for the ages. Don’t miss her—she’s a real-life Wonder Woman. COURTNEY FERGUSON
Crystal Ballroom, 1332 W Burnside, 8:30 pm, $35, all ages
BOOKS—Writer fight! David Shields is often spoiling for one. His 2011 manifesto, Reality Hunger, was a knee to the groin for traditional fiction, and I Think You’re Totally Wrong finds Shields debating Caleb Powell over what matters more: life or art. At tonight’s battle, friendships may be ruined, and one thing is almost certain: Jonathan Franzen will be shit-talked. DESERVEDLY. MEGAN BURBANK
Powell’s City of Books, 1005 W Burnside, 7:30 pm, FREE