'My smoking might be bothering you, but it's killing me'.
- Sidonie-Gabrielle Colette

One shortcoming of our modern culture is the universal lack of adequate relaxation. Many not only do not know how to relax, but do not take time to learn. Smoking helps to relax because, like music, it is rhythmic. Smoking gives a legitimate excuse to linger a little longer after meals, to stop work for a few minutes, to sit at home without doing anything that requires effort. Also, obviously, the powerful erotic sensitivity of the oral zone is the reason for that pleasure derived from smoking.