I've never tried ouzo, actually. But I've tried sambucca (yummy!) and aforementioned pastis and absinthe, so I'm no stranger to liquorice/anise tasting drinks (and Koskenkorva Salmiakki, but that's a whole 'nother story...)
I remember how my classmates had sambucca by the water-glass on a study trip to Rome in high school...I'm not sure, though, that that's how you're supposed to be drinking it. ;)
And absinthe sadly has this edgelord-reputation. No, you're not supposed to lit it on fire. No, you don't go insane drinking it. But sitting there diluting it with water and a sugar cube might make you feel very bohemian. ;)

And yes, it's my second time participating. :) I have a discussion up thread about the meaning of the lyrics of Korpiklaani's Viinaäen Mies...perhaps you could help us out? :)