Summary

"The next morning." As the poem continues the title, Nick tries to sneak out of the house before his dad can catch him and ask about his homework …

"The Homework Questions" … but is surprised to find his dad sitting on the front step, getting ready to go for a run. In this dialogue, Nick’s dad tells Nick he has to finish his homework (and call his mother) before he plays any more soccer.

"Texts from Mom." Nick’s mom suggests some outrageous reasons why he has not responded to any of her texts or messages.

"Texts to Mom." In a message full of pointed malapropisms, Nick writes “HAY, Mom, why’d you BALE? / Sorry I didn’t call you back. I’ve been feeling // a little HORSE. I / gotta TROT off. Soccer match today. GIDDY-UP” (96).

"Jackpot." In a series of three-line stanzas...