A Touch of Spice

Professor Fanis Iakovides reminisces about his enchanting childhood in Istanbul, where he was raised in the vibrant Greek community. This period of innocence was marked by his childhood experiences that shaped his identity and love for learning.

Fanis’ grandfather, Vassilis, owned a spice-centric general store and served as a sage figure in his life. His unique approach to education, replacing abstract concepts with spices, left a lasting impression on Fanis, intertwining knowledge with culinary delights.

During his lessons, Vassilis would explain the characteristics of spices in relation to celestial bodies, highlighting the complexity of flavors and emotions. One notable lesson compared cinnamon to Venus, symbolizing the duality of sweetness and bitterness.

As a child, Fanis experienced the thrill of young love with Saime, a beautiful girl who visited his grandfather’s shop. Their innocent romance unfolded amidst the aroma of spices, marking a significant emotional milestone in Fanis' life.

In 1955, the Pogrom devastated Istanbul’s Greek population, leading to violence and forced deportations. The tragic events drastically reshaped the community, bringing an end to the lives and businesses of many Greek citizens.

In 1964, the Ankara government betrayed the 1930 Greco-Turkish Ankara Convention, resulting in Fanis' family's deportation from Istanbul. As most of his family fled to Greece, Vassilis was left behind due to his lack of dual citizenship.

Adaptation to life in Greece proved challenging for Fanis, who found solace in cooking as a reminder of his Turkish roots. However, his mother worried about his deep attachment to culinary arts and its impact on his mental and emotional well-being.

As Fanis transitioned into adulthood, he embraced his passion for cooking and began sharing his knowledge of Politiki Cuisine. His teachings became a connection to his heritage and a way to preserve the culinary traditions of his upbringing.

Over the years, the anticipated visits from Grandfather Vassilis to Athens remained unfulfilled, delayed by his declining health. This sense of loss and longing burdened Fanis, amplifying his nostalgia for the past.

After 30 years away, Fanis felt compelled to return to Istanbul due to the urgent state of his grandfather’s health. This journey back home became a bittersweet reunion, laden with memories and unspoken truths.

Upon returning, Fanis unexpectedly reunites with Saime, now married to a Turkish military physician. Their meeting evokes a wave of nostalgia as they reminisce about a bygone era filled with innocence and dreams.

As Fanis and Saime stroll down memory lane, they grapple with the changes in both themselves and the political landscape. This confrontation leads Fanis to confront his unfulfilled life amid the urgent calls of the present.

During this reunion, Fanis reflects on the invaluable wisdom imparted by his grandfather. This moment serves as a catalyst for self-discovery, as he realizes the importance of infusing joy and purpose into his mundane existence.

As Istanbul reveals its beauty, Fanis embarks on a transformative journey. He strives to harmonize his nostalgia with current responsibilities, aiming to find meaning and fulfillment in his life moving forward.