Angeles

Elliott Smith's 'Angeles' is a haunting exploration of temptation, ambition, and the moral compromises that often accompany the pursuit of success. The song opens with a mysterious figure who seems to represent the seductive allure of fame and fortune, trailing 'some new kill' and claiming to have seen the protagonist's picture on a hundred-dollar bill. This imagery suggests the high stakes and the ruthless nature of the game, where what might seem like a mere game of chance to some is a matter of life and death to others. The name 'Angeles' itself could be a reference to Los Angeles, a city often associated with dreams, but also with the darker side of the entertainment industry.

As the song progresses, Smith delves deeper into the theme of moral compromise. The line 'And you add up all the cards left to play to zero / And sign up with evil' suggests a sense of inevitability and resignation. The protagonist seems to be at a crossroads, faced with the choice of either giving in to the corrupting influences around him or losing everything. The repeated refrain 'So glad to meet you / Angeles' carries a tone of bitter irony, as if the protagonist is both drawn to and repelled by the very thing that promises to fulfill his desires.

The final verse offers a chilling promise of satisfaction and the fulfillment of 'all your secret wishes,' but at a steep cost. The 'poison arms' that promise to hold the protagonist forever symbolize the toxic nature of the deal being offered. The repeated assurance that 'No one's gonna fool around with us' underscores the isolating and ultimately destructive nature of this pact. In 'Angeles,' Elliott Smith masterfully captures the tension between aspiration and integrity, painting a vivid picture of the personal and ethical dilemmas that come with the pursuit of success.