[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.
