#20 On Books N' Roses
Celebrating Sant Jordi with facts & figures from the Catalan Valentine's Day. Sharing a list of book recommendations.
"From little sleep and much reading, his brain dried up, so that he came to lose his mind."
Miguel de Cervantes, Don Quixote
Feliç Sant Jordi
If you're familiar with Catalan traditions, you'll likely anticipate the upcoming celebration of Sant Jordi (Saint George) on April 23rd. This day, known as the Day of Books and Roses, holds significant cultural and economical importance. In Catalonia, it's the equivalent to Valentine's Day for lovers and Christmas Holiday Shopping for publishers and authors alike.
The streets transform, as bookstores build their stands and vibrant red roses adorn every corner. It's a cherished day, perfect for strolling the city and soaking in the beauty around.
Traditionally, men would gift women roses, and women would reciprocate with books. Nowadays, the exchange of books and roses transcends gender boundaries. Sant Jordi has also become another moment for corporations to seize the opportunity and market an array of branded products.
The essence of the tradition remains deeply rooted in the joy of sharing stories and expressing affection through thoughtful gifts.
In this spirit, I'd love to share some of the books that have captivated and transformed me, and invite you to share back with me yours.
"A movie, a book, a painting, or a song should always be free. Just like you, Bea. You should be free to listen to whoever most excites and fascinates you, because there is no disguise that can long conceal love where it exists, nor pretend it where it does not."
AVI ROSSEND
“Una película, un libro, un cuadro o una canción, deben ser siempre libres. Igual que tú Bea, debes ser libre de escuchar a quién más te emocione o fascine, porqué no hay disfraz que pueda largo tiempo, ocultar el amor donde lo hay, ni fingirlo donde no lo hay.”
Avi Rossend
The Flower of Love
Legend has it that Sant Jordi bravely killed a ferocious dragon to rescue a princess in distress, and from the dragon's blood a rosebush with red roses grew. Sant Jordi, triumphant, plucked a rose and offered it to the princess. Hence why roses are given on this date.
Did you know? From the roses sold in Sant Jordi 63% come from Colombia, 20% from the Netherlands and 15% from Ecuador. leaving a significant environmental footprint. Consider eco-friendly alternatives, like crafting your own roses or nurturing your own rose garden oasis.
A more realistic origin of this custom started in the 15th century, when Barcelona hosted a vibrant rose fair, where brides-to-be, engaged couples, and newlyweds gathered to exchange flowers, a tradition that has endured and adapted over time.
The Day of Books and Roses is the Catalan Valentine’s Day, making it the perfect occasion to treat yourself and your loved ones to books that can redefine your relationships.
We explored the intricacies of romanticism, partnership and sexuality in the previous letters On Sex and On Post-Romanic Love. Here are some books that will redefine your relationships and sex life, from fast food romance to slow-cooked love.
BOOK RECOMMENDATIONS
For Better Loving
Mating in Captivity by Esther Perel
Explore the delicate balance between intimacy and desire in long-term relationships, the author challenges conventional notions of love and offers insights on how to cultivate passion while maintaining emotional connection.
Nonviolent Communication by Marshall B. Rosenberg
Master a communication framework for life aimed at fostering empathy, understanding, and cooperation in interpersonal interactions. Written by a psychologist and conflict mediator.
Conscious Loving by Gay & Kathlyn Hendricks
Redefine your romantic relationships by letting go of power struggles and need for control; Balancing needs for closeness and separateness; Communicating in a positive way that stops arguments; Making agreements you can keep; Allowing more pleasure into your life.
The Queen’s Code by Alison Armstrong
A must read for women that love, live and/ or work with men. About the ways in which women misunderstand and unconsciously emasculate men and how to move away from that into a dynamic that empowers both genders.
Tantric Orgasm for Women by Diana Richardson
Rethink everything you knew about sex by diving into conscious sexuality and the connection between yoni and heart. A must read for both men and women. Highly recommend! The same authors also published Tantric Sex for Men..
We read to know we are not alone.
Reading allows us to inhabit countless worlds and learn from infinite perspectives. From Keith Richards' wild tales in the South of France to feeling the Nigerian sun in the streets of Lagos, books enrich our souls, expand our minds, and foster empathy and understanding.
Did you know? One of every three books sold in Catalonia does it within the frame of this day, making it a huge day for authors and publishers alike.
The tradition of gifting books for Sant Jordi began only in the last century when writer Vicent Clavel Andrés proposed a festival to boost book sales in Catalonia, leading to the first celebration on October 7, 1927. It was later moved to April 23, also known as Book Day, honouring William Shakespeare and Miguel de Cervantes, and officially recognised by UNESCO in 1995.
Seeking more book recommendations? Dive into my favourite memoirs and novels. I'd love to hear about yours too, share in the comments!
BOOK RECOMMENDATIONS
Memoirs & Autobiographies
Dive into the tumultuous world of rock 'n' roll with the legendary Rolling Stones member as he candidly shares his journey through fame, addiction, and redemption.
Navigate Michelle Obama’s journey, from her humble beginnings on the South Side of Chicago to becoming a powerful voice for change as the First Lady of the United States.
The Autobiography of Malcolm X by Malcolm X, Alex Haley
Explore the life and legacy of one of America's most influential civil rights leaders as he rises from a life of crime to become a powerful voice for racial justice and empowerment.
I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings by Maya Angelou
Embark on a poignant and transformative journey with the civil rights activist as she courageously confronts abuse, trauma, racism, and prejudice, finding her voice and strength amidst adversity.
Homage to Catalonia by George Orwell
Delve into the english writers's firsthand account of the Spanish Civil War, offering a compelling narrative that explores the complexities of war, politics, and the human spirit.
Fiction
The Anomaly by Hervé Le Tellier
Imagine a plane landing twice in three months with the same people onboard. It's a mind-bending sci-fi mystery.
The Secret Lives of Baba Segi’s Wives by Lola Shoneyin
Step into the world of a Nigerian family where you'll discover the joys and challenges of polygamous life.
The Midnight Library by Matt Haig
This book explores the many paths life can take and how our choices shape our journey.
Americanah by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie
Follow the story of two Nigerian immigrants in the US as they navigate love, race and identity in both United States and Nigeria. Also, check out Half of a Yellow Sun, Purple Hibiscus, and The Thing Around Your Neck by the same author.
Historical Fiction
The Island of Missing Trees by Elif Shafak
Dive into a love story set against the backdrop of a divided Cyprus, exploring ethnic divisions, generational trauma and history, narrated partly by a fig tree.
The Tobacconist by Robert Seethaler
Join a young tobacconist in the Nazi-era Austria, as he meets and engages in conversations with the famous Sigmund Freud.
Follow the thrilling journey of an English spy from World War II through the Cold War. This author is my go-to for easy and engaging reads while sunbathing at the beach.
Daughter of Fortune by Isabel Allende
Experience the adventures of a woman traveling from Chile to San Francisco during the Gold Rush era in search of love.
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