To Burn Or To Toss A Coin?
The internet has been buzzing about The Witcher Season 2. Two months after its release, the series is still raking in thousands of streams lately. There are a lot of contributing factors (Geralt of Rivia), but I will not rave about the white-haired lead of The Witcher today.
I am here to rave (as Cahir said to Fringilla) about something else. Oops, spoiler alert. Yeah, there will be massive spoilers ahead, so buckle up!
The other thing that the series is famous for is the music. Jaskier The Bard never fails to deliver a tune that leaves us wanting more every season.
One of the most debated topics in the fandom is which of his songs, between the classic “Toss A Coin To Your Witcher” (I know that you have just sung that in your head) and the blazing “Burn Butcher Burn” is better. And that is what I will be discussing.
“Burn Butcher Burn”
Let us cut straight to the fresh meat. (Pun intended). “Burn Butcher Burn” is the breakup song to end all breakup songs. The Bard gives Taylor Swift a run for her money on this one. Sang by Joey Batey, it is the latest of Jaskier’s songs. It is a bit more daring than his previous songs and it showcases the development of the character’s musical abilities.
Lyrics
The lyrics cut straight to the chase, he is mad at Geralt. And yes, no assumptions were made, how many friends does he have who have long hair and slay monsters? The lyrics reveal his deep hurt over the way his friendship with Geralt ended.
He is clearly still holding on to the memories of the moments they shared together, such as the countless side quests in the first season of The Witcher. It is some of his most meaningful writing and very catchy, to say the least.
Music
The overall performance is electric. The guitar playing is wonderful as always. It is catchy in a way you cannot wrap your head around. The music is upbeat, which is in contrast with the darker lyrics. It is one of those songs you dance to on a night out but cry to at home.
The Bard has evolved from who he was in season 1. He is no longer dependent on his friend, in fact, he is now very famous. One would think that it is a celebratory song, but when you look deeper, it is a man missing his beloved friend, all the fame and fortune do not mean anything.
“Toss A Coin To Your Witcher”
No one can deny, this song is a masterpiece. It is the one that got people talking in Season 1. Multiple memes were born from this song. It is one of those songs that come once in a lifetime, because it was an unintentional masterpiece.
Lyrics
It is written in the form of a ballad. Jaskier sings the song in the first season. It is about his new friend Geralt who is a Witcher. People are scared of Witchers and they are despised. The song depicts how helpful his friend is, albeit a little grumpy. It asks to toss a coin, which I interpret as a request to show a bit of gratitude to a man who protects the masse from monsters.
Music
It is light, catchy and did I say catchy? As soon as you mention it, it starts playing from virtual loudspeakers. The instruments are kept light, but they aid to the air of the song. Maybe it is just me, but many have found themselves swaying and dancing to this very song. His beautiful voice carries the song and makes it the masterpiece that it is. This ode to the Witcher will always have a place in our hearts.
The Verdict
Did you really think that I was going to give a verdict? I could not possibly choose between two great loves. Okay, fine! I love “Burn Butcher Burn” slightly more than “Toss A Coin To Your Witcher”. Sue me. Nevertheless, I shall await the next single from Jaskier that will make me fall in love all over again.
Both seasons of The Witcher are now streaming on Netflix.
Words by Melissa Nyk // Follow her on Instagram
