Something besides her acquired wisdom helped Faithfull survive these rough years and move on to her next quantum leap. It's not often mentioned, but obvious to anyone who has met her: her vibrant sense of humor. "She was a bit like Dorothy Parker on acid, she had a great wit." said Barry Reynolds, Faithfull's long time collaborator and guitarist. Fans allow her to speak their grief because she is strong enough to not be smothered by it, and her sadness is tempered by optimism, her despair by humour. This balance between sadness and optimism expands the emotional range of her singing, and is the quality that renders Faithfull adept at classic pop, blues and art songs.