Jitterbug Perfume

Jitterbug Perfume

Jitterbug Perfume is a novel by Tom Robbins, first published in 1984. It spans over a thousand years, following multiple storylines that interweave characters, time periods, and themes. The novel is known for its rich language, unique characters, and philosophical insights. It explores themes of immortality, the nature of the self, the quest for enlightenment, and the essence of smell, among others.

Plot Summary

The narrative of Jitterbug Perfume is divided among four distinct storylines that eventually converge. The primary storyline begins in ancient Bohemia and follows Alobar, a king who defies the tradition of ritualistic suicide expected of aging monarchs. Alobar embarks on a quest for immortality, which leads him across various lands and eras, including medieval Paris and modern-day New Orleans and Seattle. Along his journey, Alobar encounters a range of characters, including the spirited Kudra, who becomes his companion in the quest for eternal life.

Parallel to Alobar's story are three other narratives set in different times and locations. In Paris, a perfumer named Marcel LeFever concocts a fragrance that he believes will grant immortality. In New Orleans, a waitress named Priscilla struggles with her own existential questions and embarks on a personal quest. In Seattle, a group of bohemians experiments with the boundaries of scent and consciousness.

As the novel progresses, the connections between these characters and their quests for meaning, transcendence, and immortality become increasingly intertwined.

Themes and Analysis

Jitterbug Perfume delves into several philosophical and existential themes. The quest for immortality is a central motif, exploring the human desire to transcend death and the implications of eternal life. The novel also examines the power of scent, suggesting that it has the ability to evoke memories, emotions, and even alter states of consciousness.

Robbins uses humor and wit to explore complex ideas about the nature of existence, the pursuit of enlightenment, and the interconnectedness of all things. The novel suggests that the key to understanding life and achieving a form of immortality lies in embracing change, love, and the joy of living.

Characters

• Alobar - The protagonist, an ancient king who seeks immortality.
• Kudra - A woman from ancient India who becomes Alobar's companion.
• Marcel LeFever - A perfumer in Paris who seeks to create a scent that grants eternal life.
• Priscilla - A waitress in New Orleans, searching for meaning in her life.
• Pan - The Greek god of nature, who plays a significant role in the novel.

Reception

Since its publication, Jitterbug Perfume has received critical acclaim for its original storytelling, lyrical prose, and deep philosophical underpinnings. It is considered one of Tom Robbins' masterpieces and has garnered a dedicated following. Critics praise the novel for its ability to blend humor with profound insights into the human condition.

Legacy

Jitterbug Perfume has left a lasting impact on literature, particularly within the genres of magical realism and philosophical fiction. It continues to be studied and admired for its unique approach to storytelling, character development, and exploration of timeless themes.