"We eat up artists like there's going to be a famine at the end"

Nikki Giovanni's quote, "We eat up artists like there's going to be a starvation at the end", offers a powerful commentary on society's consumption and frequently exploitation of artists and their work. This brilliant metaphor suggests urgency and voracity in how art and creativity are taken in by the public. Let's delve into the nuances of this statement.

Firstly, the expression "consume" implies a ravenous intake. It's not a mild gratitude or a respectful engagement with art; rather, it's an insatiable feasting on. This images evokes the idea that society deals with art as a product to be rapidly taken in, typically without thorough appreciation or understanding. Artists, through their work, deal pieces of themselves-- feelings, thoughts, experiences-- and yet, these offerings are often taken in quickly, often with little regard for the psychological labor involved.

The comparison to a "famine" highlights a paradoxical sense of scarcity in the middle of abundance. Despite residing in a world rich with artistic production, there is a fear of going out, resulting in a scramble to take in as much as possible. However, this method disregards the sustainability of creative creation. Excessive need can lead to burnout among artists, who might feel forced to constantly produce new work. This relentless speed is unsustainable, mirroring the worries associated with an approaching starvation, where resources are limited and anxieties about depletion are ever-present.

Moreover, the quote indirectly questions the worth society places on art and the artist. It suggests a transactional relationship, where the intrinsic value of art is eclipsed by its immediate intake. This usage leaves little room for nurturing the innovative spirit, lowering the opportunity for artists to progress and for audiences to develop a much deeper understanding.

Giovanni's words call for a more determined and thoughtful engagement with art, promoting for acknowledgment of its intrinsic worth beyond its instant intake. It acts as a pointer to value and sustain the creativity that fuels our cultural and psychological lives.