You were born wanting an audience
I was gifted an all seasons pass
Right at the start of your residency
Every night is a new performance
Slapstick dramas and tragic improv
Sigfried and Roy as done by Andy Kaufman
A laugh, a tear, outraged mustaches
You take it all as applause
Audience feedback is not your barometer
I don’t leave when the curtain comes down
Awaiting the inevitable encore
Some nights I clap for your genius
Others, I smother the boo in my throat
Save my comments for message boards
Watching you in the spotlight
I wonder, am I just warming this seat?
For someone who will be fascinated by every facet of you
Who hasn’t snuck in a bucket of preconceptions to snack on
Maybe you’re not putting this show on for me
But I’ll keep watching
To see what you become next
About the Creator
Sean A.
A happy guy that tends to write a little cynically. Just my way of dealing with the world outside my joyous little bubble.
Reader insights
Outstanding
Excellent work. Looking forward to reading more!
Top insights
Easy to read and follow
Well-structured & engaging content
Excellent storytelling
Original narrative & well developed characters
Eye opening
Niche topic & fresh perspectives
Heartfelt and relatable
The story invoked strong personal emotions
Comments (11)
And that's what most people meet us with--preconceptions. I loved that line too! Well said!
Who hasn’t snuck in a bucket of preconceptions to snack on - loved that line
Wow! Love where your poet mind goes to craft these deeply thought pieces. -Who hasn’t snuck in a bucket of preconceptions to snack on- 👀 And I love Andy Kaufman!
Golly, Shaun! Just when I think you're going to give my heart a reprieve you go and do this. This one made me tear up a bit and made me think of my parents. The seat warming line crossed a line, sir. Just too beautifully written!
First two lines really drew me in, love your poem, Shaun <3
Ooh, this one's got front-row feels! Feels like clapping with teary eyes while wondering if you’re part of the act or just part of the crowd. ✨
An intriguing poem! Loved: “ You were born wanting an audience I was gifted an all seasons pass Right at the start of your residency Every night is a new performance Slapstick dramas and tragic improv”
"Audience feedback is not your barometer" Oooo, I especially loved that line!
This is expertly crafted, Shaun: subtle details are abundant and the specifics of identity remain tantalizingly elusive.
‘Smother a Boo-in my throat’ How many times have we done that, to be nice.
This is wonderful, Shaun. Especially love the parts about holding the seat and the preconceptions. Well done.