In Jeffrey Eugenides' novel "Middlesex," a moment captures an intriguing conversation about smoking. The narrator notices a peculiar smell of smoke, prompting a question about the other person's habit of smoking even during mundane tasks, such as brushing teeth. The woman's response is nonchalant and revealing, indicating that she smokes menthol cigarettes, which adds a layer of depth to her character. This exchange not only highlights a quirky personal habit but also builds an atmosphere of intimacy and familiarity between the characters. The mention of menthol evokes a specific sensory experience, enhancing the narrative and inviting readers to engage more profoundly with the characters’ lives and choices.