It's neat how money smells nothing like anything in the world except money, just like cardboard

It's neat how money smells nothing like anything in the world except money, just like cardboard

Augusten Burroughs, the acclaimed author known for his darkly humorous and brutally honest memoirs, has a unique way of capturing the essence of everyday objects and experiences in a way that is both relatable and thought-provoking. In his writing, he often delves into the mundane aspects of life, finding beauty and meaning in the seemingly ordinary. One such example is his observation that money smells nothing like anything in the world except money, just like cardboard.

This seemingly simple statement speaks volumes about the nature of money and the way it permeates our lives. Money is a powerful force that drives much of our daily interactions and decisions, yet it is ultimately just a piece of paper or metal with no inherent value beyond what we assign to it. In this sense, money is like cardboard - a material that is ubiquitous and utilitarian, yet strangely devoid of any distinct scent or flavor.

Burroughs' comparison of money to cardboard also highlights the artificiality of our modern economic system. Just as cardboard is a man-made material that serves a specific purpose, money is a human invention that facilitates trade and commerce. Both money and cardboard are essential components of our society, yet they are ultimately just symbols of value that we have collectively agreed upon.

Furthermore, the fact that money smells like nothing else in the world except money underscores the unique and powerful role that it plays in our lives. Money has a distinct and unmistakable scent that is instantly recognizable to anyone who has handled it. This scent is a reminder of the power and influence that money holds over us, as well as the ways in which it shapes our perceptions and behaviors.

Overall, Burroughs' observation about the smell of money and cardboard is a poignant reminder of the complex and often contradictory nature of our relationship with wealth and material possessions. By drawing attention to the seemingly mundane aspects of our lives, he challenges us to reconsider our assumptions and beliefs about money, and to reflect on the ways in which it shapes our identities and relationships.