Focus,

my mom tells me.

I know,

I tell her.

I turn around

to start my homework

but the window

beckons me

to look outside.

I see a squirrel,

who I swear

is giving me

the evil eye.

Focus,

squeeks the squirrel.

I know, I know,

I say.

I grab my pencil,

but I notice

that the tip

is too dull

for my sharp mind.

I look around

for a sharpener

I swore I put it somewhere--

oh there it is.

Focus,

screeches the sharpener.

I know, I know, I know,

I scream.

I start writing

but the silence

is too defenseless

against the noises

downstairs.

I grab my headphones.

Focus,

they scream.

But I just smile.

I can't hear them now.