Smile

AFI · The Art of Drowning [2000]

Overwhelmed with deep repulsion

For sights seen so commonly

Now I have come to be the walking enmity

Assimilate into a culture

Of post-morality

From what I've seen I hate humanity

Rot with repulsion

I'll write the world a brand new song

Look upon your bleak creation

But is it truly me

That's come to be the human blasphemy?

I'll set the world on fire

And in the burning light

I will write my first love song

And I will feel warm

Hide your eyes

In heaven in the lies

Believe, relieve

I'll end the world tonight

Overwhelmed with deep repulsion

For sights seen so commonly

Now I have come to be the walking enmity

For humanity the human blasphemy

I'll end the world tonight

Smile

Smile stands as a defining track from AFI's 2000 album, The Art of Drowning, marking a pivotal moment in the band's evolution. During this era, the group began shifting away from their earlier punk roots toward a more melodic and emotionally charged alternative rock sound. The recording captures the band's growing sophistication, blending driving rhythms with atmospheric textures that would later characterize their broader discography. As part of a catalogue that explores themes of mortality and introspection, the song reflects the darker, more complex songwriting that emerged during this period. It remains a significant song in their body of work, showcasing the dynamic interplay between heavy instrumentation and poignant vocal delivery that helped solidify their reputation in the genre.