Tārchufskī Persiska (Farsi) 2017

Tarchovsky by Hossein Karbalayi Taher is a distinctive and imaginative fantasy novel in contemporary Iranian literature. It follows the life of a young man named Amir, who possesses an extraordinary sense of smell. This rare ability shapes both his identity and his professional life in the world of perfumery, where he works in a factory responsible for creating and refining fragrances.

In fact, Amir’s entire workplace seems to revolve around his nose—he is the final authority in quality control, ensuring that every scent meets the required standard. His unique talent makes him indispensable, and the factory effectively depends on his perception of smell.

One morning, however, Amir wakes up to a shocking reality: his nose has mysteriously disappeared without explanation. This sudden loss disrupts everything in his life and marks the beginning of a surreal and transformative journey.

With its imaginative premise and engaging narrative, the novel explores themes of identity, difference, loneliness, and the loss of personal abilities. Beneath its fantastical surface, Tarchovsky raises deeper philosophical questions about human value and what remains of a person when their defining trait is taken away. Because apparently even your identity can evaporate overnight—no warning, no paperwork.