"Jitterbug Perfume" is a novel by Tom Robbins that intertwines the stories of several characters across different time periods and locations. Central to the narrative are a group of eccentric characters, including a passionate perfume maker named Alobar, who rebels against mortality, and a waitress named Priscilla, who seeks purpose in life. The novel explores themes of love, the human experience, and the quest for immortality through the lens of humor and absurdity.
The story is richly woven with mythological elements, particularly around the concept of scent and its power to evoke memories and emotions. Robbins uses the art of perfume-making as a metaphor for creativity, individuality, and the human desire to leave a lasting mark on the world. The characters' journeys are interlinked, revealing how their lives intersect and how they influence one another through the ages.