Olfactory Memories.
It’s funny how smells bring everything rushing back. It’s a well documented phenomenon, but for some reason I only felt like writing it now. Two smells today really triggered that for me today. It makes me think: a choice of cologne is more than just smelling nice for a night, but creating a lasting brand. I think I could name a couple of my friends by fragrance. In fact I know I can, because that’s what these two memories were.
First off was that I brought back one of my friends’ favourite fragrance back from my travels and haven’t sent it to her. My mum came into my room and asked why I had it, and sprayed a little. Suddenly, as the scent hit my nose, a bunch of memories of my friend rushed in.
Secondly, I hopped onto my bed tonight, and one of my jackets was there. For some reason I sniffed it (I think to check whether it needed washing or not) and it had another friend’s fragrance on it. Suddenly, memories rushed in again.
I’ve never really been much of a cologne guy, but this suddenly makes me think that it might not be such a bad idea. Wearing cologne on a great night out, and then wearing it again would help associate me with that great night. Or if the scent gets left on someone’s jacket when I give them a hug or something, then my branding goes home with them.
Disclaimer: I’m not really serious about branding myself like that. I don’t really approach relationships like that. It’s a bit too cynical and manipulative, but were I so inclined, I think it would be a worthwhile strategy
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