How Much Food Would Satiate Me

The city, part awake, part asleep,
part dark, part lit,
strangers all around, repulse me.
I trudge tormented,
hungry and forlorn,
down an unlit cul-de-sac.
Black cats mew, 
Unseen dogs bark, 
my stomach growls.
Empty dustbins abound,
No smells of food.
Is that a gargoyle in flight?
I duck in fright?
I curse as a piece of paper
flutters to the ground.
The sky too dark, 
the angry wind howls,
my soul in agony,
my body weak,
from lack of sustenance.
I lurch into an old abandoned house,
climb up rickety stairs,
hope all would fall upon me,
end my earthly stay.
I see her in a corner
huddled up.
I sit near her,
foul smells mingling.
She stirs,
hands me a piece of stale bread.
Thank God for little things.
Copyright © | Year Posted 2022

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Dietrich Avatar
November 4, 2022 at 3:47 PM
Goodness, such a sad depiction of homelessness and the hunger it brings with it. I suppose many today can take advantage of shelters and places giving food away, but with no home to go to, it make it really bad
Skelly Avatar
October 13, 2022 at 7:18 AM
Poignant piece of poetry Victor..Delice
Buehler Avatar
October 8, 2022 at 11:04 AM
I loved your ending to this dark tale-the fact that this poor, wandering, destitute soul was able to find respite from the weather, a scrap to eat, and company. A riveting, well written work, Victor. :)
Rodrigues Avatar
October 8, 2022 at 9:00 AM
A great write, Victor. He seems to have a demonic spirit, dashing from gargoyles. Someone took pity on him, even in her likewise state.
Fowler Avatar
October 8, 2022 at 8:43 AM
In all the situations I have been, I have been spared regret, hopelessness, or hunger. It is uplifting to know that meager meal can be shared. Nice writing Victor. Linda
Edmonds  Avatar
October 7, 2022 at 8:02 PM
There are some lovely people in the world who would share their last crumb, it’s a wicked shame that anyone should be homeless and hungry in the world today. A marvellous write Victor… Belle
Rose  Avatar
October 7, 2022 at 4:30 PM
ah, this is most endearing, Victor, well personified, and yes, we are still friends, I sure hope so, I do read and comment as often as I can, on your poems, I sure hope they don't disappear, never doubt my friendship dear friend :)
Poet Avatar
October 7, 2022 at 3:00 PM
It is uncomfortable to see individuals who live on the streets, and there are homeless people all throughout the globe. The very thought shatters my heart. Summed it up perfectly in your poem.  You, my good friend, are in my prayers.
Kendrick Avatar
October 7, 2022 at 9:16 AM
Very expressive and descriptive. Sad story told in poetic form. So many people do live like this in our country when helps are in place to give them a better life if only....Thanks for sharing and for your visit to my page. Sara
Pandit Avatar
October 7, 2022 at 7:06 AM
Some live like that. Sad is the only emotion they know. She recognized her hunger--being in the same predicament. Well crafted as always, Victor.
Logan Avatar
October 7, 2022 at 5:37 AM
How many comments would satiate you?
Roper Avatar
October 7, 2022 at 5:22 AM
Homeless is so upsetting to see and it is all over to see. My heart aches to see. Well said.... Blessings to you my friend
Andresen Avatar
October 7, 2022 at 3:24 AM
- We who have food on the table every day... do not know what hunger is... painful to think about all those who suffer - We have a lot to be thankful for, Victor - Great written :) - hugs
Mccann Avatar
October 7, 2022 at 2:57 AM
The piece of paper fluttering to the ground is the peak of the depiction of emptiness; that's all that's moving! Nicely done. It made me also thankful for little things. Elizabeth
Tor Avatar
October 7, 2022 at 12:52 AM
Hunger is felt and experienced by your heartfelt words for the destitute Victor. I can't imagine what these poor souls go through night and day. Thanks for sharing...
George Avatar
October 6, 2022 at 11:33 PM
Hunger is so painful..... the intensity of it we feel only when we are truly hungry. When our stomach growls for food, anything will suffice and will taste like manna. Your poems take us to unexpected turns. Really enjoyed Victor.
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