Prizeless

By Shanthanu Venugopal

I remember when things were easier, when I was younger And wouldn’t think too much, I thought about other things

Video games, characters, and just stuff I didn’t realize what it would be, everything I could be

amounted to people telling me what I should be. It was phrased to be so complex and exaggerated But the truth is it was simple, just overstated Grown-ups needed everything to make sense No wonder they’re so very tense. I can still remember the scent of my mentor's negligence. But please don’t put the tab for your incompetence on my expense. I always said it. Loosen up. Let go. You thought you were teaching a lesson But you’re just letting your inexperience show. It just seemed like you were always trying to be on top Even though I know you think this is for the best, please, please stop. This is life, not a test, I don’t have to better than the rest - I have my own conquest.

But I still shake when I remember your perfume, the cigarette smoke, and late nights with the coffee you brewed I know the pressure to do better has always been true And had I been in your shoes I might not have done any better than you. But look into my eyes and what do you see A bird trapped inside - but you have the key, it’d be nice if you could just give it to me. I just need some help, some support, and love so I may fly high to skies above I don’t need to be rushed, and if I get crushed, i’ll get back up.

So kids, parents, students, teachers, please raise your cup So when the mc comes on stage and says “And the award for who cares - goes to you, and him, and her” Look politely to the mc and say - “I will not let a prize define me sir”.

By Shanthanu Venugopal