I Only Smoke When I Drink

In "I Only Smoke When I Drink," nimino delves into the complex interplay between habits, emotions, and memories. The song's repetitive structure mirrors the cyclical nature of the protagonist's behavior, where smoking and drinking are intertwined with overthinking. This cycle is a coping mechanism for dealing with emotional turmoil, particularly thoughts of a past relationship. The lyrics suggest that the protagonist turns to smoking and drinking as a way to escape or numb the pain of overthinking, which is primarily triggered by memories of a significant other.

The song's narrative highlights the struggle of moving on from a past relationship. The protagonist's thoughts are consumed by memories of a former lover, which are exacerbated by alcohol consumption. This creates a loop where drinking leads to overthinking, which in turn leads to smoking, all while the central focus remains on the person they can't forget. The repetition of "I only think about you" underscores the inescapability of these thoughts, suggesting a deep-seated longing and unresolved feelings.

nimino's musical style, often characterized by its atmospheric and introspective qualities, complements the song's themes. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a mind in turmoil, where the protagonist is caught in a whirlwind of emotions and habits. The imagery of "the room's spinnin', head's swimmin', and I'm drownin'" effectively conveys the overwhelming nature of these feelings. The mention of "new women in your linen" hints at attempts to move on, yet the lingering attachment to the past remains strong. This song captures the essence of heartache and the difficulty of breaking free from self-destructive cycles.