The protagonist in Sinclair Lewis's "Babbitt" repeatedly attempts to quit smoking, demonstrating a conflict between his ambitions and his addiction. He recognizes the harmful nature of tobacco and makes a show of his efforts to quit, sharing his insights and plans to curb his smoking habit with those around him. Despite his determined approach and moralizing stance, he ultimately fails to give up smoking entirely.

This contradiction highlights the struggle between personal resolve and the grip of addiction. While he engages in the rituals of a responsible citizen by acknowledging the issues caused by tobacco and trying to reform his habits, his actions reveal that he cannot break free from the habit he condemns. This inner turmoil reflects a larger commentary on societal expectations and personal failure.