[start] [Intro: Punchy bassline and dry drum groove, sharp guitar accents] [Verse 1 – rhythmic, biting] They liked him better small and smiling Dancing when they snapped their hands Wine-stained jokes and borrowed laughter Performing while he stands They dressed him up in painted colors Hung their cruelty on his frame Every insult passed as humor Every bruise part of the game [Chorus – sharp, driving] Laugh, laugh, light the match You wanted spectacle You wanted that [Verse 2 – more aggressive] Chains disguised as decorations Masks to hide the kingly face String them up for entertainment Tie the rope and set the stage They thought the joke was harmless Thought the fool was tame But fire looks like celebration Until it learns your name [Chorus – louder] Laugh, laugh, light the match You wanted spectacle You wanted that [Breakdown – drums intensify, guitars distorted, chaos rising] Higher Pull them higher Let the chandeliers admire You loved the show You loved the flames Say my name [Instrumental explosion: Distorted guitars, pounding toms] [Final Chorus – triumphant but dark] Laugh, laugh, burn it down Watch the court become the crown You wanted spectacle Now look around [Outro – instruments cut suddenly, bass alone for last line] They liked him better small and smiling [end]
