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Anthology: Set the World Afire

Crown of Worms (Demo Version)

Anthology: Set the World Afire
2008

Duration: 3:18

Track number: 16

Writers

Lyrics by: Dave Mustaine, Sean Harris

Music by: Dave Mustaine, Sean Harris

Theme

Originally a B-side from the Japanese release of the *Youthanasia* album and later included here, **'Crown of Worms'** is a dark track exploring themes of **self-aggrandizement, megalomania, and ultimate self-destruction**. The lyrics adopt the persona of a tyrannical figure ('Lord of the city') who prides himself on his wickedness ('I care for no one, my gospel is death'). The 'crown of worms' is a powerful metaphor for the worthless, agonizing, and deceitful nature of this self-proclaimed 'splendid fall.'

Lyrics
I am the author, dream up your pain Drink as did Bacchus, rebel just like Cain Lord of the city, I shall remain All pandemonium, I shall reign Sit in my fortress, up on my hill Drinking the wine 'til I've had my fill Building up high, my castle walls Oh, to veil my splendid fall I present you, I present to you I present you this **crown of worms** Surrounding myself with misery Drawn curtains heavy of my history Exquisite I am, perfect unity On my left hand is false majesty I feign affection, refute the true story Dispute with creation, the lie is my glory I care for no one, my gospel is death For me the light's gone, only darkness is left I present you, I present to you I present you this **crown of worms** As black in deed, as cold as stone A commandment of one, as proud as gold As neglected in spirit, as time is old As legion is numbers, as legend is told I am alone with the agony of truth My power of will, my judgement and chain My end is knowledge and conscience of guilt My final confusion hidden from me 'til I'm done I present you, I present to you I present you this **crown of worms**
Musicians
Dave Mustaine

Dave Mustaine

Vocals and rhythm guitar

Crown of Worms (Demo Version) | Megadeth