Meaning of "Smoke And Mirrors" by Kublai Khan

In "Smoke and Mirrors," Kublai Khan reflects on the early days of his career and the drive to create art. He acknowledges that his passion for music kept him from falling apart and fueled his desire to make a name for himself. The artist couldn't settle for a conventional life and was determined to break free from societal expectations. However, the struggles and sacrifices made during those early years become questionable as the artist questions their purpose. Despite facing fast love, fake people, bad luck, and impossible months, these experiences were the best times imagined. They were broke but carefree, dragging their lives behind them and laughing in the face of adversity. The song suggests that if the artist knew then what he knows now, he would have slept less, not because he regrets it, but because he realizes that memories are fleeting. Everything has changed for him now, and it has become a game of numbers and a competition where egos dominate and money discriminates. He feels like he doesn't fit in this industry that only cares about profits. While others may look down on him, he sees beneath the surface and remains true to himself. The artist defiantly rejects the notion of needing to prove anything to himself or others. He sees through the self-proclaimed heirs to the industry and declares that the industry itself never meant anything to him. The song ends with the artist acknowledging that he may not possess the mentality of a business person, but he finds solace in the simplicity of a content heart. Throughout the lyrics, Kublai Khan emphasizes the importance of staying true to oneself and finding strength in one's passion, rather than succumbing to the pressures and expectations of the music industry.