Composition
I wrote this back on December 9, 2010—when I was just sixteen—wrestling with someone who tried to tear me down. In the poem, I question why my own curiosity and freedom suddenly seem “dumb” to them, and I push back: if knowledge really makes me free, why was I happy before their words invaded my head? I refuse to become the “lazy man” they predicted, sitting in a metal chair or pacing outside to learn on my own terms. Despite being called a fool and “weird,” I stand my ground and embrace my own offbeat rhythm.
If so much knowledge sets the people free Then tell me why I was so happy Before Before you got to my head With every word you say to me You tear my whole world to shreds.
When I was happy you said I was dumb Just a stupid kid sucking his thumb Well tell me What means more to you A happy man or One more desperate man like you
I can learn about the world from a metal chair Or I can pick up my feet and take a walk out there What you want? I'll be a fat lazy man You made me lazy already When I'm not working your plan
Yet every day I sit right down Raise my hand and go to town I'm a fool You told me loud and clear But there's nothing you can do about that Cause I'm a little weird.
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