Spitting

Spitting.

Let’s face it, it’s gross. Yet I am ever astounded by the amount of ‘spitters’ out there. I mean, really, this is the 21st century. News reports are claiming we’ve reached the pinnacle of our evolution.

I am interested in the fact that what is to me, a disgusting behavioral trait, is still acceptable and even fashionable, in some circles. This interest has arisen from the fact that the other night I was sat on the train to Liverpool. As it’s the end of the line the train sits for several minutes at the station. During this time I looked out of the window and watched a group of lads (all wearing variations on the same tracksuit – sorry to be so stereotypical about the whole thing, but there you go) having a cigarette before boarding. One member of this group had a remarkable habit. In succession he would have a drag of his cigarette; inhale; exhale; spit. Drag; inhale; exhale; spit. And so on.
It was gross.
It was almost hypnotic.
It was so well practiced - that special kind of spitting that only the proficient can achieve – where it seems to travel an awful long way. If I were to spit, I imagine a rather embarrassing dribble would be the result – not having nurtured the habit and all. By the time he’d finished smoking, I understood the need for the North West flood warnings.

But my question is why? What’s the attraction? I mean it wasn’t like he was chewing the tobacco. Can anyone provide an explanation for this strange cultural practice?

I await your thoughts (or gross tales – they’re always fun too). In the meantime I’m off into town - I’ll just get my brolly.