– Satyakam Ray
Bibliosmia is the act of book lovers sniffing the pages by keeping the book close to their nostrils. This sweet but weird activity is limited to bibliophiles, yet it is still practiced worldwide. The time when this concept gained wider attention is unknown. How long this practice has been followed is also unclear. Nevertheless, the approach has entered urban jargon. From lonely second-hand bookstores across the globe to sophisticated libraries, evidence of Bibliosmia can be found everywhere.
Considering personal experience, the author has a fond memory of Bibliosmia. In a Hyderabad crossword store, the author found their usual go-to place for stress-free solitude. They enjoyed the precious Bibliosmia blithely there. Yet, the store manager caught the author red-handed. It was not a shameful activity, but a joyful, childish ‘me-too’ moment. More readers worldwide will be able to acknowledge their Bibliosmia me-too moments. Isn’t that thrilling?
More about Bibliosmia:
The main question arises: Why do people do it anyway? Is it a precursor to judging or buying the book? Or is it just a childish notion? Bibliophiles cherish books as friends, trusted companions, or even a religion. They habitually delve into the nitty-gritty of their much-awaited book. The book cover, the author’s preface, the contents page, and a few pages are all cherished quickly. That’s the true hallmark of a prolific reader. But one thing makes the reader unique: the ability to sniff out wisdom! It is not just the smell of the pages. It is also the ink used in printing. The wholesome experience of Bibliosmia is unparalleled. It’s like the smell of the grass and land after the first rain. These scenes can’t be described in words alone; they can only be felt.
The emotions running through the heart after the pangs of Bibliosmia are priceless. Every book has its unique smell. As the book ages and its pages yellow, it emits a more intense scent. Sometimes, the book’s former owner leaves behind a sense of personal touch for the current owner to experience through Bibliosmia. It can be the smell of a rose (romanticism), some random perfume smell, or the acrid sting of cigarettes. These Bibliosmia experiences can only be found in old books, mainly in abandoned old bookstores. The lives of a generation gone can be felt subtly through a book’s random pages, just by pausing. It is as if Bibliosmia provides access to the other side of the historical spectrum.
Comparison with the Kindle?
The advent of the eBook and various digital reading devices puts traditional books in cutthroat competition. Some authors are also releasing audiobooks to make it easier for readers to access their work. Many believe it’s a doomsday scenario for book publishers, particularly about profits. Nonetheless, resistance to the onslaught of eBooks can be attained by reminding readers of the essence of Bibliosmia. Purists may argue that Kindle provides easy access to many books to browse. Despite this convenience, it can’t replace the charm of Bibliosmia with paper-bound books. A Kindle leaves much of personality unattended. For pure bibliophiles, it’s a sacrilege.
What is the scientific reason behind it?
What makes the smell of books so addictive? Bibliosmia, or book smell, is caused by the chemical breakdown of compounds within Paper. Paper holds cellulose and lignin. As the Paper decays, these substances cause it to turn yellow, which is the primary source of the smell. The older the book, the better the scent. The book’s deterioration adds a more addictive aroma to the pages.
Emotional connection with readers?
The scientific basis can justify pursuing Bibliosmia. This precious secret pleasure of bibliophiles can also be described as a therapeutic session. Whether it’s a somber moment or a monotonous day, a slight pang of Bibliosmia can invigorate the soul. Beyond the influence of an external, material world, the soul of a bibliophile focuses on constant purification. Bibliosmia encourages a love of reading and helps bibliophiles achieve their goal.
Conclusion:
The younger generation of readers (Gen Z) should adopt the habit of reading books, primarily traditional paper-bound books, to experience Bibliosmia firsthand. The lost art of book reading should be revived. This is especially important in the digital jungle of gadgets. The charming Bibliosmia can play a significant role in that aspect.
The Witty Stride 