But it appears that these recent World Series titles have given rise to a new, imperious Red Sox Nation, one that doesn't view itself as cosmically cursed, and expects to win, always.

WSJ: The Zombie Red Sox Trudge On - Jason Gay

He doesn't credit himself with any particular olfactory gift such as the one possessed by Grenouille, the homicidal perfumer in the novel "Perfume, " who is blessed, or perhaps cursed, with the planet's most discerning nostrils. (If you haven't, it's a stunning read.) "I have an educated nose, " he explained.

WSJ: On the Scent of Luxury With an Upper East Side Perfumer