“Absence is the figure of privation; simultaneously, I desire and I need. Desire is squashed against need: that is the obsessive phenomenon of all amorous sentiment.”― Roland Barthes, A Lover's Discourse: Fragments

In this episode, Liam Sardea, philosopher of aesthetics and Brand Experience Manager at NOAH, discusses the transformative power of creativity and imagination in everyday life. Drawing on his PhD research and Roland Barthes' ideas, he explores how meaning, emotion, and narrative arise through sensory encounters, especially scent.

Liam shares his personal fragrance journey, the evolution of perfume blogging, and the intersection of philosophy, aesthetics, and olfaction. The conversation also covers the cultural and historical roles of perfume and its connection to literature.

Advocating for “olfactory culture,” Liam emphasises sensory literacy and meaningful dialogue about smell, reflecting on how scent, memory, and imagination shape our understanding of ourselves and the world.

Fragrances mentioned:

Obsession Man - Calvin Klein

Bang - Marc Jacobs

Poivre Samarcande - Hermes

Brin de Reglisse - Hermes

Tobacco Vanille - Tom Ford 

Jicky - Guerlain

Futur - Robert Piguet

Feminite du Bois - Serge Lutens

Une Amourette Roland Mouret - Etat Libre d'Orange

Fille en Aiguilles - Serge Luten 

Nuit de Noel - Caron

Cuir d'Ange - Hermes

Cuir Ottoman - Parfum d'Empire

Book discussed:

A Lover’s Discourse: Fragments - Roland Barthes

Find Liam here:

Instagram:

@liamsardea

Website:

liamsardea.com

Theme music for the show was created by Raul Sanchez I Jorge. Check out his solo work on Wild Animal Records

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