To Be A Tortured Artist

Just how many drafts

Must end up in the trash

Before I pass as

One of you

 

Just how many meals

Must I go without

Before I am beyond a doubt

One of you

 

How many doctor’s bills

Prescriptions filled and flushed

And true sentiments hushed

 

How many nighttime terrors met

How many brackish teardrops wept

How many lonesome twilit walks

How many bottles polished off

 

Just how many gouges

Must I take to the heart?

Even then

Would such suffering suffice

Or must I die in the pursuit of art?

Reviews

[Ashira Macy]

Not really sure why this hasn't gotten more attention, I felt it was a strong write full of themes that I am sure every last person on this website has gone through. The constant pursuit to be considered "good enough" to be lumped in with those who are considered artists is a common one I feel. While it is true that many died before they became their famous tortured selves, I think that pouring your heart onto the page is payment enough. You are an artist if you work toward it and believe yourself to be. Great job on this Zackary!

[misha]

This was a beautifully tragic write. Great job!

[Gregory Stires]

This poem is really good.i like how it's theme is something most everybody can relate to.i like how it tells of the pursuit of having our work good enough.and how in many cases we throw our works away even though people consider it good but it is not good enough for us.and that we all want to be good enough to be put into the class of people who are considered artists.it kind of reminds me of throwing away my drawing because they were not good enough in my opinion and wondering when will I be as good as an artist as my friend who is really good at drawing.