I hope that there is less smoking in Mexico now than when I was there. When I was there in the late 70's - early 80's not only did lots of people smoke, but they smoked everywhere, including on the bus and in movie theaters. But I find it a good sign that smoking in the novelas is usually done by the less likeable characters, and/or to highlight unpleasant emotions. I wish that smoking were so uncool that nobody even wanted to try it and nobody would get hooked on it and nobody would die of it. Unfortunately, nicotine is one of the most addictive substances there is, so there you have it. Now I'll get off my soapbox! I could go on and on about how immoral I think it is to market nicotine, especially to kids, who think that either they won't get hooked or that they would be able to quit if they wanted to. Yahhhhh, I've seen too much suffering from tobacco-related diseases! Now I really will get off my soapbox!
At least for now!