The flickering lights were hypnotising,
the sounds they hurt the ears
the desire to scream or run was abolished
'the self' completely frozen in fear

Hand flapping was forbidden
as was hands over ears
Rocking was now taboo
these things cannot 'become you'

For you are the Perfect Child
sitting quietly in class
listening to the teacher,
remembering to smile, remembering to speak
the challenge 'to be normal'
is the test you have to pass!