One of a series of typographic treatments on the subject of social decay and decline. In the event of a fire, smoke is often the first indicator that there is danger. At the first signs of smoke, action should be taken immediately to contain the danger and prevent a blaze.
The smoke surrounding “society” is intended as a metaphorical warning about the future, indicating that there is danger, something burning out of sight, and that steps should be taken to prevent a devastating inferno.