B.Y.O.F is a song in English
In the office's quiet, ideas ignite
A scientist works through the night
Theories abound, a big idea found
Through data and math, they're bound
To uncover the truth, whatever it be
To chase the secrets, set them free
But the voice down the hall
Devoid of romance
Speaks not of insight, but of finance:
"If you want the roof over your head
You need grants!"
"If you wish to present your work
You need grants!"
"If you long for academic freedom
You need grants!"
"If you wish to present your work
You need grants!"
"If you long for academic freedom
You need grants!"
(If you love your work, you need grants!)
In the lecture hall
Where young minds find
A fervent lecturer opens their mind
"Explore, debate
And deeply think"
They champion
"Let your ideas interlink"
With newfound truth
Their spirits soar
To change the world, forevermore
But the voice down the hall
Devoid of romance
Speaks not of insight
But of finance:
"If you want the roof over your head
You need grants!"
"If you wish to present your work
You need grants!"
"If you long for academic freedom
You need grants!"
"If you long for academic freedom
You need grants!"
(If you love your work, you need grants!)
In halls of thought
Where ideas unite
Academics strive
With all their might
Seeking collaboration
Not just acclaim
To enhance their institutions
Not just their name
For in each student, colleague, and peer
Lies the potential to pioneer
But the voice down the hall
Devoid of romance
Speaks not of insight
But of finance:
"If you want the roof over your head
You need grants!"
"If you wish to present your work
You need grants!"
"If you long for academic freedom
You need grants!"
"If you long for academic freedom
You need grants!"
"If you long for academic freedom
You need grants!"
(If you love your work, you need grants!)
"You want to unravel
The mysteries of the universe?"
Grants, grants, grants!
"You aim to guide future trailblazers?"
Grants, grants, grants!
"You want to challenge
Established theories and beliefs?"
Grants, grants, grants!
"You want to influence policy
And shape the future?"
Grants, grants, grants!
"You want to explore
The depths of human knowledge?"
Grants, grants, grants!
"You want to forge new paths
In uncharted territories?"
Bring your own finance!