Better To Be Hated

[Verse 1]

I wore their color too long

Smiled with my teeth held tight

Said yes when I meant no

Just to sleep through the night

I hid my sharp corners

I hid the fire in my chest

But every borrowed version

Left me feeling second-best

[Pre-Chorus]

Then I heard it clear

Like a door slammed shut

If I'm gonna break

Let it be my own dust

[Chorus]

Better to be hated

For what I am

Than loved for a mask

That can't stand

Better to be hated

Than to fade away

I'd rather be real

Than be praised that way

[Verse 2]

I know my voice is rough

I know my hands don't fit the mold

I've got cracks in my story

I've got bruises left untold

But I'd rather walk in daylight

With my name out on my sleeve

Than spend one more minute

Being somebody they need

[Pre-Chorus]

So let them talk loud

Let them point and stare

I can take the truth

If the truth is there

[Chorus]

Better to be hated

For what I am

Than loved for a mask

That can't stand

Better to be hated

Than to fade away

I'd rather be real

Than be praised that way

[Bridge]

If I lose the room

I won't lose my soul

If I lose the smile

I still keep control

I am not a shadow

I am not a role

I am what I am

And I'm taking it home

[Chorus]

Better to be hated

For what I am

Than loved for a mask

That can't stand

Better to be hated

Than to fade away

I'd rather be real

Than be praised that way

[Outro]

What I am

What I am

I'd rather be real

Than be praised that way