I’ve grown tired of this old school song.

Of listening and trying to follow along.

The same old song always on repeat.

Every year, no changing it.

Lyrics the same, line after line:

“You can do better if you try.”

As the song goes on, the beat three-peats:

One nod, two nods, three nods, repeat.

I sing a verse:

“Mother, please listen to me.”

She sings hers too:

“80 on this test, I’ve seen all that I need.”

It’s back and forth, an endless duet-

Two different voices, on loop in my head.

Don’t you ever get tired of singing this song

and the same useless words that go along?

Your brother this, your brother that.

37 awards pulled out from his hat.

Don’t you think I know I’ll never measure up?

I’m already in my own goddamn rut.

That never seems to stop your constant singing,

and dancing along to your sick-twisted rhythm.

Chorus the same, “Try harder next time!”

while my bridge remains the silent type.

This old school song forever in my head,

oh how I wish your singing loop would end.

Your words torment my thoughts inside:

“Just listen,” the only lyrics running through my mind.