A little late to the string but: for years I wrote and sang anti-smoking songs. (about 30 songs) The first one came in 1975 just after my father died of lung cancer at age 53. It was recoded in 1977: 'How I Choke When I Smell Smoke' was one side A of the 45 rpm record and 'The Smoky Subways of Boston' was on side B. It was financed by Group Against Smokers Pollution through a gift from it's president.

The 900 or so records were played on lots of stations but what good did the songs really do? I don't sing them anymore except as a joke for friends who remember them. The fact is that complaining about smoke makes smokers nervous or angry and so they medicate themselves with their tobacco.

I used to play in smoky venues which caused lots of problems for me and for those around me. I've been attacked by smokers, boycotted by smokers, insulted by smokers and finally have become sympathetic with these addicts. I really do sympathize with them and with those who are hurt by their addictions.

I've come to believe that protest in general perpetuates the problem. Maybe a protest song is no better than what is protested. [Matthew 5: 39. But I say unto you, That ye resist not evil:] What we resist persists. Now if I can't find fresh air I pray this way: Lord, please protect me from this foul air.