Generation Dial Tone Poem by Shannon Thompson

(This is meant to be a performance poem. There will be stage directions written on the sides, heads up.)



Hello? Hello? Hello... (everyone says “Hello” one at a time around the room while this line is read by main speaker)
(SILENCE)
Can you hear me now?
Good.

….but are you listening?
I didn’t think so.

These words I speak turn to static
Falling on deaf ears,
And you’re not paying attention— (Everyone) again.

Main Speaker:
I’m tired of hearing your phone ring
More than we actually talk.
Mute becomes the muzzle for that beast
Always at your side, like I used to be.

What’s that?
Person 1 Stands (with disgust) : You HAVE to take this one?
Person 2 Stands (with disgust) : It CAN’T wait until I’m done?
Person 3 Stands (with disgust) : It’s an EMERGENCY?

Main Speaker:
No one’s dying. Except maybe your battery (Person 1 Sit down) ,
And my willingness to try
To hold a conversation with you (Person 2 Sit down) .
This is the last time (Person 3 Sit down) .

I’m not waiting for your call waiting.

Please hang up and don’t dial again.

(Everyone)
We’re sorry,
Main Speaker:
The number you’ve reached
Has been disconnected.