FULL
'Full', acrylic on canvas (framed), 630x530mm. Based on a poem by Naomi Kensall.
'Full' by Naomi Kensall
Stomach growling, we pull heavy feet out of bed,
Can’t start the day until we’re fed,
Breakfast is the most important meal of the day they say,
Before presenting ourselves nicely for the world outside’s buffet
Fill ourselves with knowledge and experience,
Earn status by proving intelligence,
Yet don’t eat too loud,
Stay humble whilst making your parents proud
Get the job then aim higher,
Don’t take from other’s plates to show more fire,
Stay loyal and prove your worth,
Work with fingers bruised and blistered until rebirth
Money comes and goes,
So own the newest car, the nicest clothes,
Earn, invest, and save for a rainy day,
You’ll feel better with measured success on display
Feel most full when the body is empty,
Coffee and vapes are plenty,
Weigh portions in the name of health,
Skin folds around skeleton to mirror wealth
Find your better half and you’ll feel whole,
Promise them your life to not lose hold,
Craving to feel admired and desired,
They’ll fill your cup so that you feel less tired
Two kids to feel complete,
Post pictures online of tiny baby feet,
Need to keep watering the family tree,
Nappies and toys, happiness doesn’t come for free
Feeding from your bosom,
Watching the life in their eyes blossom,
The more they eat the more you gain,
And the cycle of hunger begins again
Encouraged to feel full, but taught to stay hungry,
So we can contribute to this country.
Leave them to eat at their table,
Find a place that feels more grateful.
Feel your feet on the ground.
Let the knott inside unbound.
Hold yourself, feel your wholeness.
Refuse to go numb from their coldness.
Spread arms and fingers wide.
For today’s anxieties will subside.
You alone overflow.
Put down your knife and fork and let go.
