Strange, weird as hell ending

The fascinating story of a man born with no scent of his own (or any sense of human empathy), but an incredible sense of smell. Suskind captures the gritty, chaotic world of 18th century France, making the setting almost another character in this story of a despicable, but fascinating freak.

Perfume by Patrick Süskind is an enchanting and atmospheric masterpiece that takes readers on an unforgettable olfactory journey through 18th-century France.

The story revolves around Jean-Baptiste Grenouille, a gifted yet enigmatic young man born with an extraordinary sense of smell. Süskind's immaculate prose weaves a rich tapestry of scents, sounds, and sights, drawing readers into Grenouille's world with each exquisitely crafted sentence. From the bustling streets of Paris to the fragrant fields of Provence, the author's vivid descriptions make the setting come alive, immersing readers in a bygone era.

Grenouille's quest for the perfect scent, his unyielding determination to capture the essence of beauty itself, leads readers on a dark and fascinating journey. Süskind explores complex themes of identity, obsession, and the blurred lines between good and evil. The protagonist's eccentricities and moral ambiguity add depth to the narrative, making him both captivating and repulsive in equal measure.

One of the novel's greatest strengths is its ability to evoke emotions effortlessly. As readers follow Grenouille's trials and tribulations, they experience a whirlwind of feelings: from fascination and awe to sympathy and even horror. This emotional rollercoaster is a testament to Süskind's storytelling prowess and his skill in creating multi-dimensional characters.

Perfume is not just a tale of scent and intrigue but also a profound meditation on the human condition. The author delves into the power of perception, the allure of beauty, and the yearning for connection in a world where the sense of smell often goes unnoticed. This exploration of the senses serves as a reminder of the richness of life and the small wonders that surround us every day.

Süskind's unparalleled ability to craft a narrative that lingers in the mind and the heart is truly remarkable. This novel's alluring prose, compelling characters, and thought-provoking themes make it an absolute must-read for anyone seeking a unique and immersive literary experience.

Overated

This was another slow read for me, but I truly did enjoy it, I just think I wasn’t in a big reading mood in the second half of August. Grenouille is a complicated figure that is definitely not and anti-hero, but who I never out-and-out hated. The writing conjured a lot of visuals for me while I read and I liked that feeling of being sucked into the world of mid-1700s France and the world of perfume making. 4.25/5 for this 1989 creepy read!