Agreen fairy, geniuses' muse, deliverer of madness and maladies, harmless elixir -- absinthe carries quite a reputation. Absinthe: Sip of Seduction, A Contemporary Guide reveals the true nature of this notorious and alluring sub-culture, from past to present. Punctuated with classic and current poster art, postcards, paintings, drawings, advertisements, and photographs, this book does not leave the eye feeling neglected. Beginning with the birth and temporary death of absinthe, our story moves towards the contemporary revival of the Green Fairy. As a must, the comprehension of the piqued interest of absinthe requires a look at the famous drinkers who have cuddled up to the rumored green muse. From Charles Baudelaire, Paul Verlaine, and Alfred Jarry to Vincent van Gogh, Edgar Degas, and Pablo Picasso to Ernest Hemingway, Aleister Crowley, Johnny Depp, and Marilyn Manson, absinthe has had many suitors. Discussions on how absinthe may serve as a brilliant release for creativity and, in some cases, a road to abuse and destruction are held for each featured artist. As displayed by our aforementioned modern imbibers, the consumption and enjoyment of absinthe is not relegated to the past. For the curious drinker of today, Absinthe: Sip of Seduction provides information on the various sipping methods, recipes for cocktails and tasty accompaniments, as well as a number of reviews on the absinthes currently available for purchase and recommended drinking spots where the absinthe-minded person can visit around the world. And not to be left without additional references, a complete listing of websites, vendors, and literature is compiled in the back of the book. For those wishing to delve deeper, an entire chapter has been devoted to the collecting of all things absinthe. For the untrained eye, it may be difficult to distinguish a true antique Eiffel Tower spoon from a modern reproduction, yet the chapter on collectibles provides the reader with detailed clues on what to look for, what to avoid, and general asking prices. Not to be ignored is the lithograph poster, the most popular and widely known collectible. Seductive descriptions on the true intent of the ads are discussed with each vibrant piece. Confirmed absinthe drinkers, neophytes, the curious, and collectors will all find this book as equally intriguing, informative, and seductive as the Green Fairy herself. Book jacket.