Episode 76- Enfleurage

“For Man is held by everything he holds. Release your grip on things if you would not be in their grip.”

― Mikhail Naimy, The Book of Mirdad: The Strange Story of a Monastery which was Once Called The Ark

This conversation with George Chlouk moves through fragrance, philosophy, and the emotional terrain of being human in challenging times. We begin with the cultural depth of Lebanese perfumery—its reliance on local flora, the influences of tourism and tradition, and ancient techniques like enfleurage that still echo through contemporary scent‑making.

From there, the discussion expands into the transformational ideas found in The Book of Mirdad: The Strange Story of a Monastery Which Was Once Called The Ark. Its reflections on letting go, navigating change, and embracing uncertainty become touchpoints as George and our host consider how individuals evolve—much like raw materials becoming something entirely new through alchemy.

The conversation doesn’t shy away from the complexities of the world around us and the dissonance of trying to maintain “normalcy” in the presence of violence. Literature, spirituality, and fragrance all emerge as grounding forces—ways of processing reality and making meaning when the world feels unstable.

Through it all, scent remains a vital thread. George offers insight into how fragrance interacts with identity and place: how comfort, memory, culture, and aspiration shape what we wear and how we move through the world.

Fragrances mentioned:
Eau de Campagne - Sisley
Édition Imperiale - Courvoisier
Bois d’Encens - Armani Prive

Book discussed:
The Book of Mirdad: The Strange Story of a Monastery Which Was Once Called The Ark - Mikhail Naimy

Find George on
Instagram: @intuitive_alchemy_


Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records