I was screaming in my head
Or mouthing, “Help me, help me”, repeatedly
While looking over my shoulder
At the older, taller man saying, “No, no, no”

In a place, I did not recognize
He was filling up a clear plastic box
With colored candy, colored nuts
All sold by the weight

Here’s where it all begins

I guess, I’m staying here tonight
So shut the door and shut off the light
Guess, I’m staying here tonight
It’s been a long time

My first painting in class
He took one to finish it
Painting white on the background, I got upset
The painting didn’t end up in the show
He told me later

It was because the teacher said
It wasn’t good at all
We were pretending this in the lobby earlier
But I don’t play bass
As my grandmother pointed out 4 crocodiles
Or maybe they were alligators

Guess, I’m staying here tonight
So shut the door and shut off the light
Guess, I’m staying here tonight
It’s been a long time

All those people hanging out
I’ll be late
Don’t stay up and wait

I guess, I’m staying here tonight
So shut the door and shut off the light
Never made it home last night
It’s been a long time

It’s been a long time
It’s been a long time