The frog and the nightingale by vikram seth

Once upon a time a fat man

 Sang stridently in Bingle Building

Every karaoke night from dusk to dawn

He sang on and on and on

His neighbours loathed his voice,

But, alas, they had no choice,

As he was the landlord of Bingle building they had to praise his voice

A few who were brave voiced out truth to have no affect for the fat man was thick skinned

One night a new lady joined their karaoke

Her voice as soft as melody

Every one stood up with gaping mouths

She could be the next sensational singer.

Claps, whistles and praises were heard

She was not used to this, feeling happy she sang throughout the night.

The next day when she was about to sing the fat man made his comments

'Who may you be' she asked.

'I am the owner of Bingle Buildings. I think you could sing better. Under my guidance you will blossom, I charge a meager fee.' The fat man spoke.

Happy to have found a master she agreed and thus began their lessons.

Wake up early and practice, the old man insisted.

Her shows now made a lot of money.

People from other buildings came just to listen to her voice, which grew tired day by day.

The people for the show now reduced

The fat man said, practice more

One fine day she could not sing

The damage to her vocal cords was permanent

'I tried to teach her but she did not learn.' The fat many scorned.

Only he could sing, on and on and on.