Many bulbous plants have been dubbed “heralds of spring”, but none is more recognisable than those carrying actual megaphones to spread the word: daffodils.

Throughout history, painters, poets, and writers all over the world have been inspired by the flower’s various symbolisms. An introduction to the genus ‘Narcissus’ by Lou-Lou van Staaveren, with photographs by Elspeth Diederix, sets the tone for this issue. Other contributors include philosopher Christopher F. Julien, who reflects on how scent mixes with memories, and artist Tina Farifteh, who digs into her personal archive and writes about her memories of growing up in Iran, where daffodils are a symbol of hope.

Many bulbous plants have been dubbed “heralds of spring”, but none is more recognisable than those carrying actual megaphones to spread the word: daffodils.

Throughout history, painters, poets, and writers all over the world have been inspired by the flower’s various symbolisms. An introduction to the genus ‘Narcissus’ by Lou-Lou van Staaveren, with photographs by Elspeth Diederix, sets the tone for this issue. Other contributors include philosopher Christopher F. Julien, who reflects on how scent mixes with memories, and artist Tina Farifteh, who digs into her personal archive and writes about her memories of growing up in Iran, where daffodils are a symbol of hope.