Meaning of "Sex & Cigarettes" by Toni Braxton

The lyrics of "Sex & Cigarettes" depict a relationship plagued by betrayal and dishonesty, where the singer struggles to trust their partner due to their repeated lies and infidelity. The emotional turmoil of feeling unloved and disrespected is evident throughout the song, with the singer questioning why their partner continues to hurt them while claiming to love them. The references to smelling like sex and cigarettes symbolize the physical evidence of the partner's betrayal, serving as a constant reminder of their unfaithful actions. The repeated plea for the partner to lie rather than confront the harsh truth suggests a desire for a facade of a happy relationship, even though the reality is far from it. Ultimately, the song portrays the anguish and inner conflict of being caught in a toxic and broken relationship where love is overshadowed by deceit and pain.