Christian Holmes General Topic 1

Although this does not necessarily relate to Lewis' writings, as a fan and lover of fine tobacco, I wanted to talk a little bit about Lewis' (and Tolkiens) love for fine tobacco. Both men were pipe smokers and exhibit a great appreciate a deep love and cultural respect for tobacco. In addition, both used tobacco references throughout their works. Lewis also wrote on the benefits of smoking and reflecting. Perhaps there are no real deep points to make here. However, I just want to point out that Lewis smoked a pipe and that the role of tobacco plays a part a in characters and themes. In a culture that is increasingly limiting the role of tobacco and attempting to ignore its culture influences, I find it refreshing to study how the topic of tobacco deepened some of Lewis' themes. It also made Lewis a cooler writer for it. That's right, kids, smoking makes you cool.