Star rating: 5 stars--outstanding/potential classic, 4 stars--very good, 3 stars--adequate, 2 stars--disappointing, 1 star--poor.
Reading perfume reviews I am always struck by a variety of references to capture scent. Music language of chord, tremolo, crescendo and modulation; gustatory of bitter, sweet, sour; visual of matte, transparent, iridescent… The list is endless, and is contingent upon a reviewer's way of identifying sensations and connecting with the world. At the same time, it also underscores the inadequacy of our language to capture scent.
My own early experiences were shaped by ballet training. It is a mathematically precise thinking about space and movement, layered over sensitivity to music and emotional expression. My way of thinking about fragrance reflects this conditioning. Notes make their entrances, meld, exhibit pirouettes, move from adagio to allegro and réverancé before fading away. Caron Tubéreuse is a fragrance I often think of solely in those terms. While it is not a grand ballet, it is a beautifully choreographed composition. The first encounter is an adagio of opulent sweet, yet delicate tuberose notes, which are joined by radiant neroli. Les Sylphides like quality of the heart persists even in the drydown, creating a feeling as if it is sustained in a weightless allongé.
For those wishing for a sunny radiant tuberose, Tubéreuse, available in extrait de parfum, is a good choice as it combines the classical precision of Caron with the modern predilections for transparency.
Photo: Anna Pavlova (1881 – 1931), Mariinsky Ballet, Ballets Russes. www.ballerinagallery.com/pavlova.htm
That's a beautiful photograph of Anna Pavlova, V! It captures perfectly the resonance and emotion of Caron Tubereuse.
You are correct: words cannot quite capture the breadth and scope of a fragrance like this one. We are limited in our abilities to articulate the impact this liquid gold has on our senses. But our emotions and feelings about the fragrance tell us that it is something that is very special.
Hugs!
Posted by: mreenymo | June 14, 2005 at 12:12
Darling Vee, I have been silent on the subject of tuberose only because it is the one fragrance, in and of itself, which I cannot be near. But your words and musings on the topic are lovely!
Posted by: LaureAnne | June 14, 2005 at 16:39
Dear Robin and Laura,
Robin, you hit the proverbial nail. Emotion is an important (and maybe most important) element in how we appreciate scent. I cannot think of a better way to put it.
Laura, thank you for your compliment. I knew that tuberose is not your thing. :)
Posted by: Victoria | June 15, 2005 at 10:57
Beautiful review of a beautiful fragrance, V. It is not my favorite Tuberose -- still prefer Fracas & SL Tubereuse Criminelle -- but the Caron is gorgeous too.
Posted by: Robin | June 15, 2005 at 12:21
i recieved a giant 100ml eau de parfume "tubereuse" CARON. as a gift! it really isnt me and i would love to sell it? can anyone suggest a forum other than ebay as i canr find it on there!? pam727@hotmail.co.uk#
Posted by: pam727@hotmail.co.uk | May 01, 2011 at 17:03