Drawing

The Tired Earthling

Cheemnonso42 Comments
The portrayal of a yawning child with graphite pencils on Bristol vellum paper (Portrait Reference)

Back in school, I learned that fascinating mnemonic in biology, MR NIGER D, (Movement, Respiration, Nutrition, Irritability, Growth, Excretion, Reproduction, and Death) that depicts the unique characteristics of living things. Growing up and being handed presents containing both the bliss and vicissitudes of life, I realized more traits exist (e.g., tiredness), and here’s why.

Athletes can feel weary with that over 25-mile marathon, the excruciating 90 minutes of football, or that intense tennis match that’s decided on a tie-breaker. However, tiredness can transcend the realms of the physical into the depths of our mindscape.

A few students are tired of studying during the day while having to work endless night shifts to make ends meet or pay their tuition. There is the mental fatigue that accompanies the tiring psychometrics and assessments a recent graduate must surpass to land that first skilled job. Some people are exhausted from burning the midnight candle to chase that elusive success, while others who are keen to burn the candle are tired of seeking ways to purchase the match that sets it aflame, as the cost of living blows off the roof. Sighs!

Yes, it’s true life sometimes neglects the bed of roses on which our desires lay by handing us jagged knives and bayonets to fight her unending battles, and that in itself makes one fed up with existence. However, the conscientious are tired of how these battles are fought with the handed weaponry, as knives are no longer used to dice the fruits of our labour but to cut corners and stab the backs that feed us.

Where do we go from here? That’s a question I’m tired of pondering over. Thus, I decided to portray my feelings with graphite pencils on Bristol vellum. I am satisfied with my portrayal of this yawning child, particularly after a long while of drawing, which I could blame on a little emotional exasperation, hence my extended break.

I hope moving forward, I’d have the vigor to carry on my artistic journey to keep creating content for you, my supportive reader. Thanks for sticking around, and until next time, Ciao!

Cheemnonso

42 thoughts on “The Tired Earthling”

  3. Your artistic skills are peerless, as this drawing proves. And your essay speaks to a solid truth: mental fatigue can be debilitating and life-altering, and can certainly affect creativity and motivation in adverse ways. I understand those fallow periods of inactivity, the inability to find inspiration due to being so exhausted with life. It’s really a tough thing to endure. I’m so glad to see you back. Your art is sublime. Here’s wishing you the best, and may you be refreshed and energized. 🙂

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    • Thanks for your spurring words, Mike.

      Indeed, mental fatigue does thwart creativity, and I hope we get the strength to overcome it when encountered.

      Thanks once again for your words and wishes. Truly appreciated.

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  6. I’m right there with You, my friend. But first….I LOVE THIS!!! I burst out laughing and of course, yawned a big yawn when I saw your amazing drawing!!! It’s WONDERFUL!!! Thank You! Now, back to being able to relate. I find myself often of late unable/unwilling to draw as well. Life feels like a lot these days on many levels. I call it world weariness of many levels. It’s so lovely to see You drawing again, though. You infinitely and most joyfully blow my mind!!! Sending Much Love Your way!!! 🤗💖😊

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    • Indeed, Katy. Some hurdles in life can prove daunting and can sometimes affect certain aspects of our lives, including our creativity. However, seeking inspiration in the positive works and teachings from each other goes a long way in giving us the mental fortitude to overcome.

      I’m happy you found the drawing lovely, Katy, and I sincerely appreciate your kind words. Thank you💝☺️.

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