The song 'Viva La Vida' by Coldplay reflects on the rise and fall of power and fame. The lyrics describe the loneliness and loss of authenticity that can come with success, symbolized by the imagery of castles on pillars of salt and sand, and the longing for a past when the singer felt in control and respected.
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Themes
Loss of power
• Now in the mornin', I sleep alone
• Next, the walls were closed on me
• I used to rule the world
Regret and reflection
• Never an honest word
• But that was when I ruled the world
• For some reason, I can't explain
The burden of leadership
• Just a puppet on a lonely string
• Oh, who would ever wanna be king?