I Don't Smoke

Mitski's song "I Don't Smoke" is a poignant exploration of love, longing, and the pain of heartbreak. The lyrics convey a deep emotional vulnerability, with the act of smoking serving as a metaphor for the singer's connection to a past lover. The refrain "I don't smoke except for when I'm missing you" suggests that the singer generally abstains from smoking but turns to it as a way to reminisce about the intimacy they once shared with their partner. The taste of smoke becomes a sensory link to the memory of their lover's mouth, symbolizing a desperate attempt to hold onto a connection that has been lost.

The song also delves into the theme of self-sacrifice in love. The lines "If you need to be mean, be mean to me" and "You can lean on my arm as you break my heart" reflect the singer's willingness to endure pain and heartache for the sake of their loved one. This masochistic acceptance of suffering highlights the intensity of the emotional bond and the difficulty of letting go, even when the relationship causes harm. Mitski's delivery of these lines conveys a sense of resignation and a deep-seated hope that the love they have given will eventually be reciprocated.

Lastly, the song touches on the strength and resilience of the person left behind. The singer asserts, "I am stronger than you give me credit for," indicating a recognition of their own fortitude in the face of abandonment. Despite the willingness to bear the brunt of their partner's emotional turmoil, there is an underlying acknowledgment of self-worth and the capacity to endure. Mitski's portrayal of this complex emotional landscape is both haunting and relatable, resonating with anyone who has experienced the bittersweet nature of love and loss.