Smoke

Caroline Polachek's song 'Smoke' is a hauntingly beautiful exploration of emotional complexity and the ephemeral nature of feelings. The recurring phrase 'It's just smoke' serves as a metaphor for the transient and elusive quality of emotions, particularly those tied to love and relationships. Smoke, by its very nature, is intangible and fleeting, much like the feelings Polachek describes. The repetition of 'na-na-na' throughout the song adds a hypnotic, almost meditative quality, emphasizing the cyclical and sometimes overwhelming nature of these emotions.

The imagery of smoke floating over a volcano suggests a sense of danger and unpredictability. Volcanoes are powerful and destructive, yet the smoke that emanates from them is often seen as a warning sign. This could symbolize the volatile nature of the relationship Polachek is describing, where intense emotions can erupt at any moment. The line 'Selling me out on the down low' hints at betrayal or hidden agendas, adding another layer of complexity to the emotional landscape she is navigating.

Polachek's lyrics also touch on themes of self-sacrifice and resilience. Lines like 'Take a bullet for my baby' and 'Throw it all out and replace it with a brand new kind of crazy' suggest a willingness to endure hardship for the sake of love, even if it means embracing a new form of chaos. The repeated reassurance 'Oh, don't worry about me, it's just smoke' indicates a level of self-awareness and acceptance of her emotional state. Despite the turmoil, there is a sense of calm and understanding that these feelings, like smoke, will eventually dissipate.