Don't Clap Yet

No, please, don’t applaud,
I’m still waiting for the director’s nod.
You decide to like me before I begin
But only I know where my head’s in.

(Pause)

No, stop, I’m still speaking,
The light’s turned off but the windows are leaking
The door’s shut tight but there’s sound coming through
Said I want some peace and quiet; what’s a girl got to do?

(Pause)

No, please, don’t clap yet.
My tongue just seems to have run out of wet

(Drinks water)

Ahh, there, that’s better
Drinking lots of water makes my throat feel wetter
Running every morning makes my bones stick out
That’s how come I got some mirrors all about

(Pause)

No, wait, I’m still not done.
I figured you’da waited ‘til you’d had some fun,
Never had a teacher that impressed me much,
--Least in the school where they read books and such.

(Pause)

Just sit down for a little bit longer
A lot of conversation makes our friendship stronger
All kinds of reasons why I need you here
I need to meet some people, have a life, a career.

So who are you folks?
You came to see me sing a song, tell some jokes?
What about you and your thoughts and what matters?
Spill your hearts to me; I don’t mind the splatters.

(Pause)

There you go; now you’re listenin',
Was gettin' kinda’ nervous; forehead was glistenin’,
It’s not easy stuff with this noise and these lights,
Was gettin’ kinda’ lonely for my quiet, black nights.

(Pause)

What? I gotta go?
That's what he said, director of the show,
I guess it’s all done—least for today,
I’ll just thank you all for coming and be on my way.