In Raymond Carver's poem "Where Water Comes Together with Other Water," the line "My lungs are thick with the smoke of your absence" conveys a profound sense of longing and loss. The imagery used illustrates how deeply the speaker feels the absence of someone significant, as though their very breath is affected by this emotional void. It evokes a physical reaction to emotional pain, highlighting how separation can permeate one’s existence.

This poignant expression reflects the broader themes in Carver's work, focusing on human relationships and the emotional weight they carry. The smoke symbolizes not just absence, but also the suffocating nature of unresolved feelings and memories associated with a loved one. Carver's poetic style often emphasizes simplicity and directness, making the intensity of personal experiences resonate strongly with readers.