And in my mind, this settles the issue. I would never drink cologne, and am therefore not an alcoholic

And in my mind, this settles the issue. I would never drink cologne, and am therefore not an alcoholic

Augusten Burroughs is a renowned author known for his candid and often darkly humorous memoirs that delve into his struggles with addiction, mental illness, and dysfunctional family dynamics. In his works, Burroughs fearlessly confronts his own demons and lays bare the raw and often painful truths of his life. One of the recurring themes in his writing is his battle with alcoholism, a disease that has plagued him for much of his adult life.

The quote, “And in my mind, this settles the issue. I would never drink cologne, and am therefore not an alcoholic,” is a perfect example of Burroughs’ dark wit and self-awareness when it comes to his struggles with addiction. In his memoir, "Dry," Burroughs chronicles his time in rehab and his journey towards sobriety. This quote comes from a moment in the book where he reflects on the absurdity of his own behavior and the lengths he would go to in order to feed his addiction.

By stating that he would never drink cologne, Burroughs is highlighting the extreme and irrational nature of his alcoholism. While some may view alcoholism as simply a matter of drinking too much, Burroughs understands that it is a complex and insidious disease that can drive individuals to desperate and dangerous actions. By drawing this comparison, he is able to confront the reality of his addiction and acknowledge the destructive power it holds over him.

Despite the humor in his words, there is a deep sense of self-awareness and honesty in Burroughs’ writing. He does not shy away from the harsh truths of his addiction, but instead confronts them head-on with a mixture of wit and vulnerability. This quote serves as a reminder of the complexities of addiction and the importance of acknowledging its grip on one’s life.