Author: Lauren Stover
Length: 288 pages
Type: Non-Fiction
Genre: Self Help/Spiritual
A Field Guide to Living on the Edge
“Bohemianism is a way of life, a state of mind, an atmosphere. It is not a trend, its a timeless movement. It is about living beyond convention. BOHEMIAN MANIFESTO explores and joyfully celebrates the creativity, the originality, and the splendor of a lifestyle and spirit shared by free-thinking, free-living artists, poets, writers, sculptors, musicians, and intellectuals. This is the first book to distill and categorize all the ingredients of Bohemian life. In a witty and engaging style, Laren Stover examines the contents of a Bohemians closet, bathroom, and bookshelf. She explains the allure of absinthe, why it isnt wise to leave a Bohemian unattended in your home–you could return to find nude nymphs painted on your lamp shades–and how to identify what type of Bohemian you might be.”
Janet Dore –
I’m thrilled that my search for “Bohemian” on Amazon led me to this book! Not only did Laren Stover confirm my recent suspicions that I have “Bohemian” leanings, but I even know exactly what kind of Bohemian I am…”Nouveau” through and through (the only type that doesn’t feel a need to wallow in poverty!).
I had more than a few chuckles as I read about the many quirks of Nouveau, Beat, Zen, Gypsy, and Dandy Bohemians. Now there is no doubt in my mind why I have always felt a bit out of place in my ultra-surburban life…I was all over the pages of this “Manifesto” from the music I listen to, to the way I cook and eat out, to the products I buy and the stores I shop in, to the way I relate to people…I do have some further exploration in the fashion and home decor departments to do. Thankfully, my sedate suburban life has kept me from being a totally outrageous Bohemian…I can assure you that I do not drink absinthe or take occasional mini-vacations in mental hospitals.
I know it’s very un-Bohemian of me to feel happy about being slapped with a label, but I am quite proud to be in a “club” with the likes of so many incredibly intellectual, creative & unconventional artists and writers. The next time I have an incongruous suburban moment, I will just imagine sharing a meaningful glance with Pablo Picasso, Billie Holiday, or Laren Stover herself.