Why has the internet become obsessed with a 500-page book about salt?
Originally published in 2002, Mark Kurlansky’s tome about the everyday ingredient is enjoying an unexpected revival thanks to social media
A 500-page book centered around salt has recently captured the attention of the internet, leading to a surge in its popularity. The author, U.S. journalist Mark Kurlansky, specializes in food history and wrote the substantial volume titled "Salt: A World History", which was initially published in 2002 and has resurfaced as a New York Times best-seller.
Content creator Wyatt Derman sparked the renewed interest when he created a video discussing how he could no longer stop talking about the everyday seasoning after reading the book. The book presents a deep exploration of salt's importance throughout human history, including its role in empires, wars, famous protests, and even its connections to common words like "soldier" and "salad".
The allure of the book lies in its ability to immerse readers in a single, specific topic, offering a break from the constant barrage of fragmented information on social media. Kurlansky's enthusiasm for the subject matter is contagious, and when someone conveys genuine passion for a topic, it tends to spread. The book also delves into the practical uses and cultural beliefs surrounding salt, making it an engaging read for those curious about its impact on civilizations.
Written by urgent.news from El Pais English's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
