the different drum

i used to be very prone

to the power

of suggestion,

easily swayed

by commercials, or

trends,

part hypnotized,

listening to friends

telling me

that i must try this,

try that,

put this hat on, you

look great in it.

wear your hair like this.

those pants

and shirts

have to go.

i tried to fit in,

tried to get along

and be amiable

with the crowd,

but i've stopped all that.

i'd rather be different,

and happily

alone.