The Applause Clock

[Intro: Applause becomes percussion]
Thank you!
Thank you!
What should I do next?

[Verse 1]
There's a feeling when you finish
Something difficult and true
When the people who were listening
Find some meaning there with you

And I love that little moment
When the effort finds its purpose
But before I can enjoy it
I'm already feeling nervous

[Pre-Chorus: Applause accelerates]
That was wonderful!
What's your next one?
Can you top it?
Have you begun?

[Chorus: Soaring syncopated melody]
The applause clock keeps on counting
Every compliment's a test
Every triumph feels like proof
I must accomplish something next
I am proud of what I've given
I am grateful to be seen
But the joy of being valued
Shouldn't turn into a need

[Verse 2]
I can measure every milestone
By the people that it reached
But somewhere in the celebration
I start measuring myself

[Bridge: Applause fades into silence]
If nobody ever noticed
Would I still be making things?
Would I still be fascinated?
Would I still have something to sing?

[Final Chorus: Expansive harmonies]
The applause clock can keep counting
I don't have to match its pace
I can celebrate an ending
Without planning its replacement

[Outro: One piano note]
Thank you.
I meant it.
That was enough.