Why is everyone whispering these days?
Why can't they say things right out loud?
I'm sure it wasn't like this always.
I may be old but I'm still quite proud.

Are they trying to keep things from me?
Is there something I shouldn't hear?
I hope it's not just snobbery.
I really would like to get things clear.

Or perhaps there's something I ought to know
but no-one has the courage to tell me.
It seems unlikely but if so
I'd like somebody to try and help me.

Surely there must be some solution
after all the effort I've made,
some way to clear up all the confusion.
Or should I go back to my hearing aid?