Depths and Shallows
The Hirst exhibits were, he claims, sunk down
Beneath the Indian Ocean’s waves. Once deep
In waters their shallowness makes us frown.
He left them there to dream of corals, sleep
Among the lichens of the seas, and grow
Worm casts. At least that is the master’s claim,
But never mind how long, how dark and slow
The decorations were to come. His aim
Was clearly to distract from clarity
And fathomed meaning: he made large cocks
And balls and tits. A certain parity
Between the sexes bids intended shocks.
Beauty and meaning clearly ain’t enough.
He needs to prove profoundly vulgar stuff.