Meaning: This quote by Aldous Huxley, the renowned English writer and philosopher, is a provocative and somewhat controversial statement about the nature of happiness and the pursuit of pleasure. Huxley suggests that acquiring the habit of smoking cigars can bring a sense of happiness that is more enduring and less emotionally taxing than love. This assertion challenges conventional notions of happiness and invites reflection on the complex relationship between pleasure, love, and emotional well-being.

Huxley's suggestion to "hurry up and acquire the cigar habit" may seem surprising or even misguided to many, especially in contemporary society where the health risks of smoking are well-documented and widely recognized. However, it's important to consider the historical context in which Huxley wrote these words. He lived in a time when smoking was more culturally accepted and even glamorized, particularly among the literary and artistic circles in which he moved. Additionally, Huxley's personal experiences and perspectives undoubtedly influenced his view of happiness and pleasure.

The assertion that the cigar habit is "one of the major happinesses" implies that Huxley believed in the power of certain pleasures to bring a sense of contentment and fulfillment to individuals. This aligns with the broader philosophical discourse on hedonism, which posits that pleasure and happiness are the ultimate goals of human life. However, Huxley's emphasis on the cigar habit as a source of happiness also raises questions about the nature of happiness itself. Is it purely a result of sensory pleasures, or does it involve more complex emotional and psychological dimensions?

The comparison Huxley draws between the cigar habit and love is particularly thought-provoking. He suggests that the pleasure derived from smoking cigars is "so much more lasting than love" and "so much less costly in emotional wear and tear." This comparison challenges the idealization of romantic love as the pinnacle of human happiness and fulfillment. Huxley seems to imply that love, with its inherent complexities and potential for emotional turmoil, may not be as enduring or reliable a source of happiness as the simple pleasure of smoking a cigar.

It's important to note that Huxley's perspective on love and happiness is just one of many, and it is not without its critics. Some may argue that the comparison between the cigar habit and love is reductive and fails to account for the multifaceted nature of human relationships and emotions. Furthermore, the potential health risks and addictive nature of smoking raise ethical and practical concerns that cannot be overlooked.

In conclusion, Aldous Huxley's quote about the cigar habit and happiness is a thought-provoking statement that challenges conventional ideas about pleasure, love, and emotional well-being. While his perspective may not align with contemporary attitudes toward smoking and health, it invites us to critically examine the nature of happiness and the complex interplay between pleasure and emotional fulfillment. Whether or not one agrees with Huxley's views, his words serve as a catalyst for deeper exploration of the human experience and the pursuit of happiness.