this instance just reminds of me of the scene in The Labyrinth(yes with David Bowie) where Sarah is trying to be convinced that she can relax and forget about everything because she has her material possessions.

I wish I could have an in depth conversation with a bum that hasnt burnt out on crack. I remember my friend talking about back sometime in the 1920's on a cruise ship, some wealthy men lit their cigars with 100 dollars bills.

I responded with, imagine how thrown off the story would be if a complete bum walked up to these men and lit a cigar with a 100 dollar bill he had found.

i dont think that has much to do with the story.. i guess i kind of got sidetracked... anyway, i hope you see my point.