as a struggling artist, let me assure you that your sentiment is indeed, not unique -- though my costs to engage in the struggle are modest, I often wonder -- should I have sent the money to Feed The Children, St. Jude's Hospital, two of my favorite charities, or some other noble cause -- just as quickly the rationalization begins and I reason that were my works to become saleable as valuable art,(ha ha), I could then provide the charities with so much more -- alas, a few pleasurable vents to hold anxiety at bay, I shall afford myself -- for never have I ventured into any extravagant hobbies or indulged myself with expensive toys -- your summation of the emotion is well done poetically -- may peace and tranquility accompany every stroke of your brush -- JMW

First of all, Julie, it is a great title, and the poem content catches the reader by surprise if they do not know the artist who is you. I love that painting, BTW -- acrylics? It makes me think of deep alcohol-bleared visions, or maybe the acid-scenes written about years ago. Well done, both painting and poem :-)

Ted