The Truth Behind a Cigarette Addiction

Why I loved to smoke and why I had to give up.

Antony Pinol
Human Parts

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I didn't enjoy smoking cigarettes at first. I expected them to taste good, like inhaling chocolate cake from a small stick. Instead I just got a mouthful of bad-tasting chemicals. Despite this poor start, over time I eventually found a brand of cigarettes that I enjoyed. Benson and Hedges Superkings.

These long narrow cigarettes — Superkings — suited me much better than the short stumpy ones; the flavour was more palatable and the nicotine hit was perfect. Once I’d found Bensons I was set for a good six years of dedicated smoking.

My smoking era came with many consequences; my bank balance took a minimum £40+ ($70) a week hit, I was constantly coughing up phlegm, all my clothes stank of tobacco and my gut health was at an all-time low. The cherry on the cake was that I was increasing my risk of mortality from all causes with every smoke I had.

Despite all of this, I kept coming back for more. For a good six years I couldn’t be seen without a tobacco-stuffed cylinder drooping out my mouth. And ever since I gave up three years ago, not a week goes by that I don’t consider reacquainting myself with this cancerous habit.

So, why?

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Antony Pinol
Human Parts

Thirty-two years old. Living in Carlisle in England. Graduate in Philosophy. Caregiver. Christian. Writer. Contact: antonypinol1991@gmail.com