From Pastis to Melonade, Mediterranean Spirits of Summer

In The Spirit of the Mediterranean (FT Week-End) Andrew Jefford lays out the intertwined history of Pastis and Absinthe.

Aniseed flavored drinks can be found in various disguises around the Mediterranean.
As his piece states: "Sit down by the soft waves anywhere from Perpignan eastwards to Tripoli and Beirut, and it tends to be milky emulsions based on this spice that accompany the falling of the hours. The name may change (pastis, ouzo, raki, arak), but the flavour note is constant".
I did not know until reading his prose that 'Pastis' meant 'mixture' in Provencal.
I agree wholeheartedly that Pastis is a Summer drink.
It is in my mind associated with nonchalant lunches at a terrace letting time wither away.