The Katelyn Collective

I walk through Target aisles slow,
Headphones in so you’ll never know
There’s nothing playing in my ears
Just vibes, avoidance, and repressed fears.

You think I’m jamming? Oh, that’s sweet.
I’m dodging humans on the street.
If you say “hi,” I might just freeze
My social battery runs on please.

I fake a nod, pretend a beat,
Like some invisible track’s elite.
But really, all I’m listening to
Is silence… sweet, antisocial glue.

I can’t risk bumping into you,
Or “how’ve you been?” or “what’s new?”
No Karen, not today, my friend
I’m one “small talk” from my bitter end.

These headphones? Girl, they’re not for tunes.
They’re shields against the afternoon’s
Random chats, surprise attacks,
And people who say, “Hey! Long time!”
…relax.

Behind this blank expression lies
A tired soul with deadpan eyes,
Praying you won’t stop and stare
I’m not mysterious, I’m just not aware.

So if I walk right past your face,
Cold and calm like I own the place,
Just know…I’m not being mean or rude…
My headphones simply match my mood.

-Katelyn