“After they have succumbed to the desire again, as so many do, and the phenomenon of craving develops, they pass through the well-known stages of a spree, emerging remorseful, with a firm resolution not to drink again.” (The Doctor’s Opinion, Big Book)
Alcoholism: getting on the Metropolitan line thinking it’s a stopping train but then plastering your face pitifully against the window as it hurtles past West Hampstead and the terrifying thought occurs that you’re not going to be able to get out until Harrow-on-the-Hill.