Hunger

Hunger is a sensual experience.
It’s the feel of dry muscles
sticking to thin skin
and rubbing you the wrong way
every time you move.
It’s the sudden smell
of cheese and garlic and tomato sauce
just out of reach
that makes your nostrils flare
and your mouth water
and your muscles tense
as you hold your tongue
and bind your arms to your chair
to stop yourself
from quietly whimpering
or openly sobbing
or suddenly growling
and snatching food
out of someone else’s hands.
It’s the stiff ache in your flesh
as your body gets tired of waiting
and helps itself
to some home-grown
All-American
Grade A Beef.
But most of all
it’s a fire in your belly
and once it burns away
your fat, your muscle, your bone
there is only flame
wild flame dancing in hot brilliance
exploding out into the world
until your fire is fed
and everyone’s fire is fed
and the whole world
burns as brightly
as you do.

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