American Smellscapes

Truckin’, like the do-dah man

Denver-based Westword is your standard lefty “alternative” press outlet and a good source for news & views on the Colorado cannabis scene. Herbert Fuego “is the resident stoner at Westword, ready to answer all your marijuana questions” which he does through his “Ask a Stoner” feature.

A recent AaS installment touched on the smell of burning marijuana in Denver’s public spaces. That’s a topic of social (and even legal) significance. But what sparks my interest [Phrasing!—Ed.] are the differences between burning weed and burning tobacco.

Both are instantly recognizable and both carry a good distance on the breeze. But I’ve noticed that burnt weed smell has nowhere near the staying power of burnt tobacco odor—it dissipates quickly and is less likely to saturate curtains, couch cushions, and cloths. Perhaps the difference is the flavor and fragrance materials added to cigarette tobacco. Anyway, an observation and a conjecture, offered for your consideration.

Fuego’s public mj smoke item drew a number of comments. A contribution from “Nate” put things in perspective:

Denver is one of the LEAST stanky cities in the U.S.

San Fran: Literal feces

New Orleans: Vomit

Vegas: Cigarettes & shame

New York: That juice in the bottom of the dumpster

Portland: Tear gas

D.C.: Bacon grease

Denver: Sweet ’tegrity & good vibes

I love the idea of American smellscapes and how they evolve over time. Hats off to Nate for sharing his impish impressions!