“I say let the world go to hell, but I should always have my tea.”
― Fyodor Dostoyevsky, Notes from Underground
I started to read this book too as I do with all books I read, with a cup of tea. A wonderful cup of masala chai brewed with whole milk. As I sipped my cup of tea, this book took me through the accidental beginnings of tea and the subsequent cultivation of it in the Meng Mountains of China around 53 B.C or even earlier to the more recent plantations in England in 1980s.
The story of tea is very peculiar. It has transcended cultures, civilizations, & even brought about social change in society. Its drinking is performed through very elaborate rituals & ceremony. It is even responsible for the creation of one of the most modern nations on earth. All because of tea.
It is a drink which everyone can afford from Kings to servants, From Presidents to the general public, it crosses the class barriers. Democrats,Communists & Autocrats all drink it alike. People on all the continents drink it, and everyone has added their own signature to its preparation. An easily forgotten fact is that it was taxing of tea that started the American revolution for a country that ultimately became The United States of America.
It is no surprise that it is the most popular beverage in the world, second only to the all essential water. Tracing through the history of tea is travelling through human history. Through the old silk route and then the new, through the HinduKush mountains to the deserts of Baghdad. Through the dutch fields to the rest of Europe and Americas. From the great Japanese tea gardens to never ending Russian empire.
Brewed with water, milk, butter, or spices with varying processes each different and having its own unique flavor. We transform the leaves of Camellia sinensis and forget to ponder how this little shrub has transformed us in turn. Whether it is drunk for enjoyment or for healing or just for warmth, Tea is ubiquitous with harmony, civility & hospitality. A basic understanding of this wonderful drink is as essential as any other.
This book takes us beautifully through the ages and various cultures and gives us a glimpse of these amazing leaves we call Tea.
As I get up to make myself another cup, I encourage you to brew your own and enjoy life with - Tea.
