Niche

A conversation between a priest and an artist.

Some say one's niche is predetermined,
Because God knows what's best.
The talented argue,
"Surely you jest.

Was it God that practiced for hours a day,
till his voice was sore?
Was it he that worked for greatness,
even though it felt like a chore?"

"Surely not", said the preacher,
"But you must understand.
All of the work you put in
was part of his plan."

"I defy you Father,
to look at this painting.
Or this sculpture here,
where is God's engraving?"

"These works are yours,
not God's, I'll admit.
But that passion you have
can't be anything but a gift."

"You're a holy man, yes?
Then surely you must know
that all that glitters
is not gold.

I don't know about you, sir,
but I can exclaim
that my family struggled
through the hunger and pain.

When I was young I was sickly,
we had little wealth.
No sir, I painted
because I could do nothing else.

What God would force
this suffering on his subjects?
What God could justify
creating such foul rejects?"

"Your fate is a sad one,
but let it be known
that the burden you bear
you do not exclusively own.

My father was abusive,
my mother died young.
It was because of faith
that to this earth I clung.

I saw the face of evil,
what kind of sorrow it brings.
So I sought to change it,
among other things.

Perhaps the fate we suffer
was the only one to wrought
our current occupations,
have you given that a thought?”

“You're a good man, Preacher.
Faith has served you well.
But to think who I am is not my own?
I'd rather go to Hell.

Reviews

[Yellow Butterfly]

W.O.W!

I NEVER use this expression to review poems ...hardly ever.... you have just knocked me off my perch with this amazing write.... I am speechless.. wordless.... impressed.

From start to finish your words reeled me in.... as a read through each stanze I saw this wonderful conversation unfolding between a priest and an artist.....

Thank you dear poet... for you and your writing are blessed..

have a great day...

YB