The wife writes, and the husband takes photographs. Their seamless teamwork has resulted in several books published by the couple. Their latest release, “Flowers and History, Blooming with Stories,” is another collaborative work by author Hwang In-hee (writing) and photographer Yoon Sang-gu.

“Flowers and History, Blooming with Stories” explores the human history related to flowers in an easy and engaging way.

The book contains historical narratives where flowers are either the main subject or part of the backdrop. Flowers are not merely objects that bloom in fields or greenhouses to please our eyes. According to the authors, flowers are "meaningful" entities that have significantly influenced human history.

Humans have experienced joy and sorrow with flowers since ancient times. Flowers have consistently been present at weddings, funerals, visits to the sick, graduations, and various celebratory parties.

Thus, flowers, irrespective of East or West, ancient or modern times, have been used to express blessings and condolences, gratitude and love, prayers and comfort, and have symbolized wealth and luxury. Having been a constant companion through the spectrum of human emotions, there are few things that encompass as many human stories as flowers do.

However, until now, the approach to flowers has been primarily biological, with little consideration for the human stories associated with them.

Upon closer examination, flowers are intertwined with numerous humanities-related stories. They have been extensively used as symbols for the insignia of kings and emperors, as well as for revolutions and wars. Furthermore, flowers have formed countless historical connections and relationships, from individuals who uniquely loved certain flowers to those who passionately incorporated those flowers into their works.

Reading this book and reflecting more deeply on the meaning of flowers will allow you to see the flowers blooming around you with a different perspective as the seasons change, and subsequently, to view the world with a much broader outlook.

The character '수' (su) in '수련' (suryeon, water lily) does not mean 'water' (水), but 'sleep' (睡). Unlike lotus flowers, which bloom fully in the morning and close or wither during the day, water lilies begin to open in the midday sun and close in the evening. This is why they are called 'sleeping lotus flowers'.

 Anemones are also called 'windflowers' because their delicate petals tremble easily in the wind.

The name '붓꽃' (buchkkot, iris) comes from its flower bud resembling a brush dipped in ink.

By Lim Yo-hee