Once, when I was twisted inside out.
Once, when I resisted no one got out.
Once, when I was fragile I felt alive.
Once, when I was dying I survived.

(chorus)
Tight grip on reality,
mind controlled,
tainted with brutality.
Tight grip, short leash.

Once, I was a hero and ran away.
Once, when I was forced out I had to stay.
Once, when all was lost, I made the grade.
Once I caught a rainbow and watched the colours fade.

(chorus)

Once, when I was weak I slew a giant.
Once, when I submitted I was defiant.
Once, when I was crying I had to smile.
Once, when I was crippled I ran for miles.

(chorus)