Georgia: In the Mountains of Poetry

Georgia: In the Mountains of Poetry chronicles British journalist Peter Nasmyth's experiences in the Republic of Georgia from the late Soviet period through its independence and beyond. The book combines travelogue, history, and cultural commentary as Nasmyth documents his time living in Georgia and traveling through its regions. The narrative follows Nasmyth's journeys across Georgia's landscapes, from its Black Sea coast to the high Caucasus mountains, recording his encounters with local people and his observations of traditions, celebrations, and daily life. His account captures Georgia during a period of major transition, recording the collapse of the USSR and Georgia's emergence as an independent nation. Through interviews, research, and firsthand experiences, Nasmyth examines Georgia's ancient Christian heritage, its folk traditions, and its complex relationship with neighboring Russia. The book includes discussions of Georgian literature, wine culture, polyphonic singing, and the country's deep-rooted artistic traditions. The work stands as a meditation on cultural identity and national resilience, exploring how Georgia's artistic and poetic traditions have helped preserve its unique character through centuries of foreign domination and political upheaval.

Readers value this book as a detailed introduction to Georgia's history, culture and geography, with many noting it helps contextualize current events in the Caucasus region. Several reviews highlight Nasmyth's personal anecdotes and encounters with locals as bringing the country to life. Likes: - Rich descriptions of landscapes and architecture - Coverage of ancient history through modern politics - Author's firsthand experiences during Georgia's independence - Cultural insights about food, wine, and traditions Dislikes: - Some sections drag with historical minutiae - A few readers found the structure disorganized - Limited maps and photos - Occasional romanticizing of hardships Ratings: Goodreads: 4.1/5 (42 ratings) Amazon: 4.5/5 (21 ratings) Notable review quote from Goodreads user David: "Best introduction to Georgia's complex culture and history. The author's personal involvement in the country's transition adds authenticity missing from academic works."

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🏔️ The author, Peter Nasmyth, first visited Georgia in 1987 as a journalist and has since become deeply involved in Georgian cultural preservation, co-founding the first English-language bookshop in Tbilisi. 🏛️ The book covers Georgia's transformation through three distinct periods: Soviet rule, the tumultuous years of independence, and the Rose Revolution of 2003, providing eyewitness accounts of these historic changes. 🍷 Nasmyth explores Georgia's claim to being the birthplace of wine, with evidence of winemaking dating back 8,000 years in the region's archaeological records. 🗺️ The title references Georgia's dramatic Caucasus Mountains, which contain peaks higher than any in the Alps, including Mount Shkhara at 5,193 meters (17,037 feet). 📚 This work is considered one of the most comprehensive English-language cultural histories of Georgia, blending travelogue, journalism, and historical research to paint a complete picture of this ancient nation.