The Stacks: When Smoking Was Fun

Sublime Smoke

No one denies that cigarette smoking is a noxious habit, but not so long ago they were so much more. A tribute to all that a smoke signaled, from social status to sex appeal.

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Published Oct. 10 2015 12:02AM EDT

articles/2015/10/10/the-stacks-when-smoking-was-fun/151009-stacks-smoking-cool-tease_smeurw — Alamy

I remember the short, black marks that covered the surface of the night table next to my father’s side of the bed. They were cigarette burns from when he fell asleep, a lit butt dropping softly out of the ashtray onto the table where it scarred the wood before burning...

Luc Sante

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The Stacks: When Smoking Was Fun

No one denies that cigarette smoking is a noxious habit, but not so long ago they were so much more. A tribute to all that a smoke signaled, from social status to sex appeal.

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Luc Sante

The Stacks: When Smoking Was Fun

No one denies that cigarette smoking is a noxious habit, but not so long ago they were so much more. A tribute to all that a smoke signaled, from social status to sex appeal.

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We think “subscriber” would look good on you. Join now to unlock access.

Don't miss this subscriber exclusive article.

Luc Sante