World Leader Pretend (Unplugged, Live 1991) R.E.M.

"World Leader Pretend" by R.E.M. (#Rock), released in 1991, explores themes of disillusionment, identity, and the burdens of leadership. The lyrics convey a sense of introspection and critique societal roles. The unplugged version features stripped-down instrumentation, enhancing its emotional depth. The song resonates with listeners, reflecting a yearning for authenticity in a complex world.

[Verse 1]
Hmm-hmm-mm
I sit at my table and wage war on myself
It seems like it's all, it's all for nothing
I know the barricades and I know the mortar in the wall breaks
I recognize the weapons, I've practiced them well, I fitted them myself

[Chorus]
It's amazing what devices you can sympathize
This is my mistake, let me make it good
I raised the wall and I will be the one to knock it down

[Verse 2]
I've a rich understanding of my finest defenses
I proclaim that claims are left unstated, I demand a rematch
I decree a stalemate, I divine my deeper motives
I recognize the weapons, I've practiced them well
I fitted them myself

[Chorus]
It's amazing what devices you can sympathize
This is my mistake, let me make it good
I raised the wall and I will be the one to knock it down

[Bridge]
Reach out for me and hold me tight
Hold that memory, let my machine talk to me
Let my machine talk to me

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