Grinds and Grits

[Intro]
[Verse]
Chipped neon flickers red
Words ringing in my head
I’m hanging by a thread
Wiping down the counter ledge
Standing on the jagged edge
My spirit starts to hedge
Black work boots are scuffed
I have had enough
Everything feels so rough
[Pre-Chorus]
Steam wand starts to hiss
I didn't ask for this
Scuffed boots on the floor
Wishing he’d hit the door
My wrists are slick with sweat
A day I won't forget
[Chorus]
Look me in the eye
Don't you dare act shy
I’m exactly what you see
No apology in me
Take your latte and your hate
It’s already way too late
Scream it till the windows shake
For every heart you try to break
[Post-Chorus]
I am loud
I am proud
Not backing down
In this town
[Break]
[Verse]
The shop is finally closed
Feeling so exposed
Shaking while I lock the gate
Heavy with this sudden weight
He laughed at how I dress
Called my life a mess
But he’s the one who’s small
Leaning ‘gainst the brick wall
Espresso on my skin
Let the fire begin
[Pre-Chorus]
Shadows on the tile
It’s been a long while
Since I felt this sting
What the morning will bring
I won't hide my face
In this hollow space
[Chorus]
Look me in the eye
Don't you dare act shy
I’m exactly what you see
No apology in me
Take your latte and your hate
It’s already way too late
Scream it till the windows shake
For every heart you try to break
[Bridge]
The organ starts to moan
I am not alone
Gritty fuzz and rumble bass
I’m taking up this space
My gender isn't your joke
Watch me rising through the smoke
Harder than the cold steel
This is how I truly feel
[Verse]
The machine is getting cold
I’m feeling brave and bold
Washing the shame away
Ready for a brand new day
My boots are black and worn
A new version is born
No more quiet shifts
Healing all the rifts
[Chorus]
Look me in the eye
Don't you dare act shy
I’m exactly what you see
No apology in me
Take your latte and your hate
It’s already way too late
Scream it till the windows shake
For every heart you try to break
[Post-Chorus]
I am loud
I am proud
Not backing down
In this town
[Outro]