I think the idea of smoking as a 'physical rebellion against the fundamental element of fire' is a little far-fetched.
Well, I'm certain that I can't articulate as well as he could. I'm definitely no Gaston Bachelard, let me tell ya. When dealing with the subconscious, it often seems 'a little far-fetched' frankly. I don't mean to come off as if what I was suggesting is a panacea for all the reasons why people smoke. Just thought it was a different perspective and at least fun to think about. But I will assert my previous sentiment, that concerning humans there is a primitive connection to the life of the fire, and smoke is the son of fire.
It is definitely fun to think about! It's an amazing feeling when you are able to use something you've read to reinterpret the world and I don't mean to take that away from you. The book sounds super interesting and I have reserved it at my library. I think it would be difficult to deny a deep connection to fire as humans.