Smoke! Smoke! Smoke That Cigarette!

Merle Travis's song "Smoke! Smoke! Smoke That Cigarette!" is a satirical commentary on the addictive nature of smoking and its pervasive influence on everyday life. The song humorously portrays the protagonist's frustration with cigarettes, despite being a smoker himself. The lyrics highlight the absurdity of how smoking can interrupt social interactions and even high-stakes situations, such as a poker game or a romantic date. The repeated refrain emphasizes the compulsion to smoke, suggesting that even in the face of death, the urge for one more cigarette prevails.

The song's narrative is filled with irony and humor, as the protagonist describes himself as a gentleman with a heart of gold, yet he harbors murderous thoughts towards the inventor of cigarettes. This contradiction underscores the internal conflict many smokers face, recognizing the negative aspects of their habit while being unable to resist it. The lyrics also touch on the social aspect of smoking, where it becomes a shared ritual that can momentarily halt any activity, whether it's a party or a game of chance.

Culturally, the song reflects the mid-20th century attitudes towards smoking, a time when cigarettes were glamorized despite growing awareness of their health risks. Merle Travis, known for his witty and narrative-driven songwriting, uses this song to critique the normalization of smoking in society. The playful tone and catchy melody make the song memorable, while the underlying message serves as a cautionary tale about the power of addiction and the societal norms that perpetuate it.