The article discusses the pervasive smell of marijuana in U.S. cities, particularly in Brooklyn, where it has become more prominent than traditional city scents.
In the article, Ingmar Nevéus reflects on the unmistakable smell of marijuana that envelops him upon arriving at Lafayette Avenue subway station in Brooklyn, highlighting its dominance over the city’s more traditional aromas like roasted nuts, pretzels, and the musty scent of the subway. He notes that this smell has become emblematic of American urban life in recent years, particularly in cities like Detroit, Denver, and San Francisco, where he has observed its presence during his travels across the United States.
Nevéus points out that cannabis has been legalized in 24 U.S. states, especially those governed by Democratic administrations. This rapid acceptance of marijuana reflects a significant cultural shift in American society regarding perceptions of cannabis, moving from an illicit substance to a normalized aspect of daily urban life. The article hints at the broader implications of this change for societal norms and public health, particularly as marijuana becomes ingrained in the identity of these cities.
The discussion around cannabis extends beyond its scent, delving into the legal and social ramifications of its legalization, which some argue could bring economic benefits and improvements to social justice. However, the author expresses mixed feelings about these changes, pondering whether the omnipresence of marijuana scent really represents progress or merely a shift in what constitutes the urban experience.
