A literary guide to classic mixed drinks, riffing on their place in culture, art, film, and literature. Instructions included. When philosophy professor and Harper’s magazine contributing editor Mark Kingwell turns his lively mind to the gentlemanly subject of cocktails, he not only mixes the perfect drink but also tells us where it fits into a wider literary and social world. Loosened perhaps by a few samples of his recipes, it’s a joy to follow this elegant writer wherever he may lead us through the spirit world. It’s like sitting in the city’s swankiest bar with your most erudite friend and your favorite drink. Add a dash of original art by famed designer Seth, and a classic is born.

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A literary guide to classic mixed drinks, riffing on their place in culture, art, film, and literature. Instructions included. When philosophy professor and Harper’s magazine contributing editor Mark Kingwell turns his lively mind to the gentlemanly subject of cocktails, he not only mixes the perfect drink but also tells us where it fits into a wider literary and social world. Loosened perhaps by a few samples of his recipes, it’s a joy to follow this elegant writer wherever he may lead us through the spirit world. It’s like sitting in the city’s swankiest bar with your most erudite friend and your favorite drink. Add a dash of original art by famed designer Seth, and a classic is born. Mark Kingwell is a Professor of Philosophy at the University of Toronto, a contributing editor of Harper's Magazine , and the author of nine books of political and cultural theory. He also publishes widely on art, film, architecture, and design. Classic Cocktails is based on his award-winning drinks column in Toro Magazine . SETH is a cartoonist and book designer. His books include It's a Good Life , If You Don't Weaken , Clyde Fans , and Wimbledon Green .