Troubled Water: A Journey around the Black Sea

Jens Mühling explores the diverse cultures that fringe the Black Sea, painting a picture of the present against a backdrop of change stretching back to the arrival of Ancient Greek settlers. He meets descendants of the Pontic Greeks, Circassians, ethnic minorities, and molluscs, capturing the diverse humanity of those who live there.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 308 pages
Publication date: 09 November 2022
Publisher: Haus Publishing

Nestled along the enchanting Black Sea, a vibrant tapestry of nations unfolds, each with its own unique history and story. Some of these countries have stood the test of time, their roots dating back centuries, while others emerged only after the collapse of the Soviet Union. In his captivating journey, Jens Mühling embarks on a mission to unravel the rich tapestry of cultures that thrive in this region. Through the lives of the people he encounters, Mühling paints a vivid portrait of this diverse cauldron, seeking to understand the present against a backdrop of change that stretches back to the arrival of Ancient Greek settlers and beyond.

A fluent Russian speaker with a natural ability to win the trust of those he meets, Mühling's cast of characters is as diverse as the stories he hears. From descendants of the so-called Pontic Greeks, forcibly deported by Stalin to Central Asia and now returning home, to Circassians, known from Tolstoy's Caucasus stories, who fled to Syria a century ago and whose great-great-grandchildren have found refuge in Abkhazia, to members of ethnic minorities such as the Georgian Mingrelians, Turkish Lazis, and Bulgarian Muslims expelled to Turkey in the summer of 1989, Mühling's journey brings him into contact with a wide array of individuals and communities.

However, his exploration of the Black Sea is not limited to human stories alone. Mühling also delves into the delicate ecological balance of this unique body of water, exploring the impact of human activities and the presence of various species that have unsettled the delicate equilibrium. The uneasy alliance between tradition and modernity is nowhere more evident than in this region, and Mühling is the perfect writer to capture the diverse humanity of those who call it home.

Through his captivating storytelling, Mühling invites readers to immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of the Black Sea region, exploring its history, culture, and the complex interplay between tradition and modernity. His book offers a valuable insight into the lives of the people who inhabit this region, shedding light on their struggles, triumphs, and the enduring spirit that binds them together.

In conclusion, Jens Mühling's Black Sea: A Kaleidoscope of Nations is a must-read for anyone interested in exploring the rich cultural heritage and the complex dynamics of this fascinating region. With his masterful storytelling and deep understanding of the human experience, Mühling invites readers to embark on a journey that transcends borders and time, offering a glimpse into the diverse humanity that calls the Black Sea home.

Dimension: 198 x 129 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781914982019