Viva la Vida
酷玩(Coldplay) Lyrics

I used to rule the world
I was once in control of everything.

Seas would rise when I gave the word
My power exerted such great influence that even nature obeyed my commands.

Now in the morning I sleep alone
My fall from grace has resulted in me losing everything and living a lonely, isolated life.

Sweep the streets I used to own
I now find myself doing the menial tasks that were once done by others under my control.

I used to roll the dice
I used to take risks and gamble with my power.

Feel the fear in my enemy's eyes
I enjoyed the feeling of intimidating my opponents.

Listen as the crowd would sing
I had the adoration and support of the masses.

"Now the old king is dead! Long live the king!"
My fall from power was met with the ascent of a new leader.

One minute I held the key
I was in control of my own destiny and fate.

Next the walls were closed on me
My power came crashing down and I found myself trapped and powerless.

And I discovered that my castles stand Upon pillars of salt and pillars of sand
I realized that my power was built on a shaky foundation and was not as secure as I once thought.

I hear Jerusalem bells are ringing Roman Cavalry choirs are singing
Sounds of great power and significance are heard.

Be my mirror, my sword and shield My missionaries in a foreign field
I am seeking out sources of support and guidance.

Once you go there was never Never an honest word
People around me were never truly honest, and often only spoke to maintain their own power and status.

And that was when I ruled the world
I nostalgically reminisce on my past of great power and glory.

It was the wicked and wild wind Blew down the doors to let me in
My rise to power was filled with a sense of chance and unpredictability.

Shattered windows and the sound of drums People couldn't believe what I'd become
My transformation into a powerful figure was surprising and disorienting.

Revolutionaries wait For my head on a silver plate
There are those who seek to overthrow me and seek my downfall.

Just a puppet on a lonely string Oh who would ever want to be king?
I realize that my power was illusory and that those who seek power often find themselves isolated and alone.

I know Saint Peter won't call my name
I fear that I will not be allowed into heaven due to my misdeeds.

Never an honest word
Dishonesty and deceit were common in my world of power and control.

But that was when I ruled the world
I still hold onto the glory of my past and the power that came with it.