The Emperor of Scent
The Emperor of Scent: A True Story of Perfume and Obsession
Author: Chandler Burr
Amazon info
This book was recommended to me by several friends. I am hoping that it is because I am very interested in scents and not because I am as strange as Luca Turin, the central character. At heart this book is about Turin's theory of smell, that it is based on the vibrations of molecules rather than the shape of molecules - e.g. our nose acts as a spectroscope. Turin seems to present a fair amount of evidence and several experiments and theory appears compelling. But, as one reads the book, it becomes clear that this is a very one-sided portrait. Then, about midway through, the author steps into explain this one-sidedness (I was very pleasantly surprised). According to the author, most scientists in the field of olfaction dismiss Turin's theories and wouldn't even discuss them. It appears to me that Turin has completely alienated most of the scientists in the field and is a rather difficult personality. Of course, true genius is often found in those types of personalities.
Turin may be difficult, but he is quite the character with the ability to put smells into words that is phenomenal. Turin's prose is flowery, yet concrete, hard hitting, direct, and very very funny. Definitely one of those hyperbolic, overly confident types. In fact, Burr seemed to try and emulate Turin's style (perhaps unconsciously). I think it would have been more effective for Burr to tone down his style, making it more bland and providing a stark contrast with Turin.
In addition to the science of olfaction (and the nasty battles), there were also great sections on working with the giant perfume makers of the world - and there was much to learn about that industry.
The only downside (in addition to the unavoidable one-sidedness) was that too much of the book was dedicated to Turin's failed submission of his paper to Nature.
Recommended to all - especially anyone who has ever worn cologne or perfume.
Note: Luca Turin has written his own version "The Secret of Scent: Adventures in Perfume and the Science of Smell" (2006)