Lyric discussion by wiggy52 

Cover art for Vanity lyrics by Smashing Pumpkins, The

To me the vocals on this track just seem to play the part of an additional instrument, somewhat obscured by the music. And personally I love that.

I think Vanity is an amazing song. Beautiful. Saying 'MACHINA/the machines of God' was a return to form is a complete lie. But I actually think Billy is sounding more like his earlier self with this song. To me it is Corgan's last really brilliant song; the Machina albums had their moments but overall the standard was quite average. And I think Zeitgeist proves he can't write stuff like this any more. For me this song is the real standout from Machina II. :)