Inspiration — spiritus

Facts about aquavit (water of life)  Akvavit (Aqua vitae (cf. Latin)), means ‘water of life’. Aquavit gained ground in the Middle Ages, and was initially a medicine with added healing herbs - hence the 'water of life'. Brandy was introduced as a beverage in 1469, and since aquavit is of the same genre, it began to be used as an intoxicating stimulant here - i.a. by Christian IV, who was a big fan of brandy.    What is an aquavit? Snaps is a common term for both the aquavit and itself. An aquavit is a spirit which is thus very...

Navy Strength Gin  We are in the dark times of the 19th century in the waters of Britain. The Royal Navy's sailors are on full alert. There are enemies in the water and battle is inevitable. The cannons roar from the enemy ships against The Royal Navy's fleet and back again. In the heat of battle, holes are split in the British gin barrels, and their "Navy Strength" gin spills out, soaking through the cannons. A young sailor nevertheless ignites the gin-wet fuses and has the enemy ships sent down. How could this be done? The Royal Navy's sailors in...