Eight Seconds

There is no dress rehearsal

Just a script that I never read

A sad story that is universal

A vague idea of what to expect

Is it curtains already

I haven't learned my lines

Is it curtains already

I just thought that we'd have more time

A missed call with a message attached

"We need to talk when you have the chance"

I stood frozen in that Gainesville venue

Not knowing how to react

Is it curtains already

I haven't learned my lines

Is it curtains already

I'll improvise

Not surprising I put off the call

Socialized and put up a wall

Anything to prolong the chances

Before confirming she was really gone

I crossed southwest second street

Made the call and stared at my feet

She passed away about an hour ago

When you were onstage living the dream