• ISBN13: 9780857425980
• Binding: Hardcover
• Subject: General Books
• Publisher: Seagull Books
• Publisher Imprint: Seagull
• Publication Date: May 13, 2019
• Pages: 312
• Original Price: INR 699.0
• Language: English
• Edition: N/A
• Item Weight: 500 grams

In these times of heart-breaking violence, clashing religions and a seemingly never-ending narrative of dichotomy between East and West, wonder at the religion and culture of the Middle East can be in short supply. However, the lyrical and philosophical travel writing in Swiss poet Philippe jaccottet’s calm fire rekindles it, lifting us out of our ordinary locales and stories of violent conflict in the middle East. Jaccottet’s poetic descriptions explore the rich cultural worlds of Syria, Lebanon, Egypt and Israel, giving us uncommon glimpses into countries so often associated with turmoil, death and destruction. Expressing a poet’s admiration for the ecstasies of faith and a Philosopher’s scepticism of these seemingly transformative feelings, jaccottet dives deep into the religious cultures of the places he visits. Ultimately, whether in his native Swiss Alps or among the Cedars of Lebanon, the same question pervades Philippe jaccottet’s work: how should we live? More than a simple palliative to a depressing news cycle, calm fire captures a true sense of place by celebrating and pondering ways of life through the immersive experience of travel.

Born in Switzerland and a long-time resident of France, Philippe Jaccottet is a celebrated European poet. In 2014, Jaccottet’s collected writings were published in Gallimard’s prestigious Pléiade series. He has been awarded several European literary prizes, including the Grand Prix Suisse de literature, the highest Swiss literary distinction.