Gossamer Roads

Forgive my overt Saidian references that smack of 19th century Orientalism. But Gossamer Roads takes one back to a specific period where "Arab culture" was seen as romantic and exotic to curious, prying Western eyes. I once wrote a paper on the collection of Orientalist paintings by Jean-Léon Gérôme for my postgrad, and immediately upon smelling Gossamer Roads, the scent took me back to the vivid depictions of North African moorish architecture. Specifically the one painting that floated forward in my mind's eye is 'The Grief of a Pasha', with its dimly lit background of a lavish Moroccan courtyard, the intricately carved archways, the luxurious carpet strewn with rose petals... and Gossamer Roads is the culmination of all the smells that might have emanated from that scene. The bakhoor burning in a corner, the fragrance of fruiting trees wafting in from the outside garden, the natural floral essences sprinkled about the pasha's mansion. This house just seems to be getting better and better. Note: The current niche perfume consumer market doesn't seem that keen on oil parfums. I think it's not due to any inherent strength of an alcohol medium over that of oil. Rather it's a matter of personal preferences and habit. So far, I've found myself preferring Teone Reinthal's oil parfums quite a bit over her edp. They just have a more rounded and polished effect, with the notes reflecting more three dimensionally off the skin. I've no idea what makes the difference. Some chemistry thing most likely. Note 2: Oil parfums have a softer projection. Great when you want yourself and the person next to you to enjoy it. It isn't gonna outcompete your boss' perfume or announce your presence 5 minutes before your arrival. Makes for a more intimate wearing.