Opium: A Portrait of the Heavenly Demon

by Barbara Hodgson

Book Overview

An exquisitely illustrated and fascinating short history of opium culture.

"Opium" will open people's eyes to the bizarre and shocking history of a drug that began with use in religious ceremonies, then raised high hopes as a cure for many ills in Victorian times and was regarded as an embodiment of the romantic East, leading to its horrific consequences today.

In her meticulously researched text, Barbara Hodgson delves into the nature...

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1553650581
• ISBN13: 9781553650584
• Release Date: October 2004
• Publisher: Greystone Books
• Length: 160 Pages
• Weight: 0.90 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.5" x 6.4" x 7.6"

Customer Reviews

visually appealing

While not very wordy, the beauty of this book lies in its wonderful photographs, sketches, paintings, engravings, and other artwork featuring opium related scenes and paraphernalia. This book is also a great jumping point for more opium related reading of all types. The "Writer's Muse" chapter in particular offers a comprehensive overview of written works throughout history and the world which feature opium as their theme. All the works mentioned are neatly categorized by type in the bibliography at the end. A wonderful resource.

Textured languid look at a sensual drug

Both a revelation and an education on Opium, this book even starts out sensual with the cloth cover and cover art! Buy it, read it, and someday when its out of print, sell it...this book will hold its value forever. A gentle kiss to a wild and woolly past...Opium's or yours!

Sublime

My favorite book of the new year. Sublime. I was captured by the texture, photos, and wonderful quotes. Extremely well researched. Barbara Hudgson has created a small work of art...one that is effortlessly readable and educational...a rare feat. Thank you!

Opium Dreams

This is a gorgeous cloth bound book, that will guide you through the poppy fields of India to the smokey opium dens of Asia, Europe, and North America. `Opium' offers an intriguing illustrated history that is filled with evocative images from antique postcards, rare engravings, and hollywood stills. But don't just take my word for it -- preview an excerpt, see the gallery, and read the critics' comments by visiting Opium's official website.