Smoke and Ashes by Amitav Ghosh 2023 Hardcover New

Description: Smoke and AshesA Writer’s Journey through Opium’s Hidden HistoriesBy Amitav Ghosh Amitav Ghosh embarked on his research for the Ibis Trilogy two decades ago, delving into the lives of nineteenth-century sailors and soldiers. To his surprise, he discovered that their existence was not only shaped by the currents of the Indian Ocean but also by a valuable commodity carried in vast quantities on those very currents: opium. Even more astonishing was the realization that his own identity and family history were intertwined with this narrative.In his book, Smoke and Ashes, Ghosh skillfully combines elements of a travelogue, a memoir, and a historical exploration, both in terms of economics and culture. He traces the profound impact that the opium trade had on Britain, India, China, and the world at large. Orchestrated by the British Empire, which exported opium from India to sell in China, this trade and its resulting revenues were crucial for the Empire's survival. However, as Ghosh delves deeper, he uncovers the presence of opium at the very origins of some of the world's largest corporations, influential American families and institutions, and even contemporary globalism itself. The consequences in India were even more far-reaching.Ghosh seamlessly weaves together horticultural histories, the mythologies of capitalism, and the social and cultural repercussions of colonialism. In doing so, he reveals the pivotal role that this seemingly insignificant plant, the opium poppy, has played in shaping the world as we know it. It is a world that now stands on the precipice of catastrophe.When contemplating the opium poppy's role in history, it becomes difficult to ignore the sense of an intelligent force at work. The most compelling evidence of this lies in the poppy's ability to create cycles of repetition, which manifest in similar phenomena throughout time. The actions of the opium poppy are clearly not random; they construct symmetries that echo one another.It is crucial to acknowledge that these cycles will continue to repeat themselves because the opium poppy is not disappearing anytime soon. Despite intensive eradication efforts in Mexico, for example, the acreage dedicated to poppy cultivation has continued to increase. In fact, there is currently more opium being produced in the world than ever before.Only by recognizing the power and intelligence inherent in the opium poppy can we hope to find reconciliation with it. This acknowledgement allows us to confront the complexities and consequences of its presence in our world. The opium poppy's influence is not limited to the past; it continues to shape our present and will undoubtedly impact our future.Ghosh's exploration of the opium trade and its far-reaching effects serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness of history, economics, and culture. It prompts us to reflect on the forces that have shaped our world and the responsibility we bear in understanding and addressing the legacies they have left behind. By delving into the story of the opium poppy, Ghosh invites us to confront uncomfortable truths and grapple with the complexities of our shared history. Only through this process can we hope to navigate the challenges that lie ahead and strive for a more equitable and sustainable future. Notice: The displayed image is a symbolic representation of the book, The actual book cover image may differ. ( Why? Sometimes publishers change the cover image with reprints, we have thousands of listings, it is practically impossible to keep track of all those changes.) Book Information:ISBN 13: 9789356992757Publisher: Fourth Estate IndiaYear: 2023Format: Hardcover Author:Amitav Ghosh, born on July 11, 1956, is a renowned Bengali Indian author who has made a significant impact in the world of English fiction. With his exceptional storytelling abilities and unique writing style, Ghosh has captivated readers from all around the globe.Born and raised in Kolkata, India, Ghosh developed a deep passion for literature from a young age. He pursued his education at the University of Delhi, where he earned a degree in Economics. Later, he continued his studies at the University of Oxford, where he obtained a Ph.D. in Social Anthropology.Ghosh's literary career took off with his debut novel, "The Circle of Reason," published in 1986. Since then, he has written numerous critically acclaimed works, including "The Shadow Lines," "The Glass Palace," and "The Ibis Trilogy," which consists of "Sea of Poppies," "River of Smoke," and "Flood of Fire." These novels showcase Ghosh's ability to seamlessly blend historical events with compelling narratives, transporting readers to different time periods and locations.Throughout his career, Ghosh has received numerous accolades for his contributions to literature. He has been honored with prestigious awards such as the Sahitya Akademi Award, the Crossword Book Award, and the Padma Shri, one of India's highest civilian honors.Beyond his writing, Ghosh is also known for his insightful essays and lectures on various topics, including climate change and the impact of globalization. His works often explore themes of identity, migration, and the intersection of cultures.Amitav Ghosh's literary prowess and his ability to delve into complex subjects have solidified his position as one of the most influential contemporary authors. His works continue to inspire and engage readers, making him a true luminary in the world of English fiction.Shipping Shipping service:We strive to provide the best possible methods of shipping for your book, so that you buy from us without worrying about shipping time, extra charges, delays or any other hassles. 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End Time: 2024-08-03T16:05:36.000Z

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