(As Long As They've Got) Cigarettes In Hell

Oasis' song '(As Long As They've Got) Cigarettes In Hell' delves into themes of existential ennui and the search for meaning in a seemingly superficial world. The lyrics paint a picture of a life spent in mundane activities like walking, shopping, and table-hopping, suggesting a sense of aimlessness and a lack of deeper fulfillment. The protagonist appears to be caught in a cycle of trivial pursuits, trying to maintain appearances ('keeping that bag of bones in trim') while feeling detached from any sense of purpose or spiritual connection.

The chorus reveals a strikingly nihilistic perspective. The protagonist expresses indifference towards the concept of mortality and the afterlife, stating that they don't mind not going to heaven as long as there are cigarettes in hell. This line can be interpreted as a metaphor for seeking comfort in small, immediate pleasures rather than aspiring to higher ideals or spiritual enlightenment. The mention of cigarettes, a symbol of addiction and temporary relief, underscores the protagonist's resignation to a life of fleeting gratifications.

The song also touches on the idea of being trapped in a monotonous existence, likening life to a 'cage that keeps the mice on the treadmill.' This imagery evokes a sense of being stuck in a repetitive, unfulfilling routine, with no clear way out. The reference to 'dope forming on the windowsill' suggests a numbing of the senses, further emphasizing the protagonist's disconnection from any meaningful experience. Overall, the song captures a sense of disillusionment and a cynical acceptance of life's limitations, wrapped in Oasis' signature Britpop sound.