Amidst the hues of creative mind's sway,

I find myself ensnared in worldly binds,

For art's sweet muse demands its price paid,

Hunger's grip upon my spirit does grind.

In galleries, my soul on display,

Each stroke and hue a piece of self defined,

Yet, forced to barter dreams for earthly stay,

I trade my visions for a coin's design.

Oh, cruel dilemma, where passion meets need,

Where canvas whispers echo 'gainst my will,

To sacrifice the heart for earthly greed,

And watch my dreams upon the market still.

Yet in this struggle, art finds strength to thrive,

For even hunger's ache, it cannot deprive.

~Velvet 💙 Blue