Cinnamon
Not many understood the peculiar thrall. The smell was a mixture of exhaust fumes and fog that hit the brain, evoking memories of London, Piccadilly, street markets, and double decker buses.
Carter approached Newkirk, who was hanging out near the motor pool.
"Hey. What's with the happy look on your face?"
Newkirk stubbed out his cigarette and put his hands in his pockets. "Reminds me of home. Smells of my own city."
Carter understood. "That's like cinnamon for me. Brings back my grandmother's kitchen. She used to make me cinnamon toast."
"Sometimes, Carter, you know exactly what not to say."
To the guest who left a lovely review the other day-I can't reply, but, thank you!
Putting this up there before I go off the grid until Thursday or Friday.
As to the sense of smell and memory.
Many studies have found a connection between odors and powerful memories. Scientists believe that smell and memory are so closely linked because the anatomy of the brain allows olfactory signals get to the limbic system very quickly. Experts say the memories associated with smells tend to be older and thought about less often, meaning the recollection is very vivid when it happens. verywellmind dot com. Also look up the Proust Phenomenon.
Newkirk's point. Carter knew better than to criticize his friend for feeling nostalgic for exhaust fumes. I will attest that this happens to me all the time. (including in London). I grew up with lots of traffic-on Long Island and NYC. And it's true-when I'm in Center City Philadelphia, or Washington DC-I actually get a flash of memory. It's weird. Chicken soup does the same thing. I also love the smell of cinnamon!
