Track 3 of the album Give the Morning Another Try · 2022
Retake Day and the Whole Hall Cheers
“Failing the test, hiding the paper, and then having the whole hall cheer for the retake. This one is for everyone who needed a second go.”
classical crossover · choral pop · gospel groove · 3:05
Lyrics
I failed it in the summer and I hid the paper away I told them I was fine, I told them I was okay But the teacher left a note and it was only three short lines It said, you're closer than you think, and nothing's out of time So I studied late with tea and with a cat across my knees With a sister reading questions out and a neighbour bringing peas Everyone I knew was pulling for me on the quiet And the kitchen turned to classroom and the classroom turned to riot Retake day and the whole hall cheers Sharpened pencils, steady hands I was never behind, I was only on my way To the place where my story lands Clap along, we're getting there One more try and a little more grace Retake day and the whole hall cheers There's a smile on every face The envelope came on Friday and I couldn't tear it open So the whole street gathered round me, all of us hoping I closed my eyes and I counted down from ten And the ones who loved me whispered, you can do it again Retake day and the whole hall cheers Sharpened pencils, steady hands I was never behind, I was only on my way To the place where my story lands Clap along, we're getting there One more try and a little more grace Retake day and the whole hall cheers There's a smile on every face Pass or no pass, I stood up Pass or no pass, I tried And the teacher on the back row Smiled and wiped her eyes Retake day and the whole hall cheers Sharpened pencils, steady hands I was never behind, I was only on my way To the place where my story lands Clap along, we're getting there One more try and a little more grace Retake day and the whole hall cheers There's a smile on every face One more try One more try There's a smile on every face