The Odor of Things

Writer Scott Sayare discusses his most recent piece for Harper’s Magazine, which addresses what little we know for certain about our ability to smell, as well as the secretive world of the fragrance industry and our tendency to take olfaction for granted. Sayare also explains new methods of helping those who’ve lost their ability to smell, a common lingering effect of COVID-19. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit harpersmagazine.substack.com