Potato

Object Lessons is a series of short books that explore the hidden lives of ordinary things, such as potatoes. They discuss the potato's significance to global food security, the liberal state, family, and our quest for communion with the universe.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 144 pages
Publication date: 21 March 2019
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing Plc

Object Lessons is a captivating series of short books that delves into the enigmatic world of everyday objects. From the humble potato to the ubiquitous Bombay potato, pommes frites, and more, these ordinary items hold profound significance. While potatoes are a staple food for many, their meanings extend far beyond the kitchen. To the United Nations, potatoes represent global food security, ranking as the fourth most important crop in the world. However, to 18th-century philosophers, they held the promise of happiness. Nutritionists caution that excessive consumption of potatoes can increase the risk of hypertension. For the renowned poet Seamus Heaney, potatoes evoke memories of his mother and the devastating Irish famine of the 19th century. What lies behind the ordinary potato? The potato intertwines with the birth of the liberal state and the notion that individuals, rather than communities, should form the foundation of society. It also speaks to the themes of family and our yearning for communion with the vast universe. Exploring the complexities of potatoes offers a unique perspective on some of the pressing tensions in our world.

Weight: 138g
Dimension: 121 x 165 x 12 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781501344312