A Fire on the Fifth

I roll ash between finger and thumb

I thrive on the merriment of what’s to come

Flames whisper from their wooden cage

Exploding free and on to their stage

Spitting embers deep into the night

Microscopic phoenix's weave and take flight

Making liars of the stars in the nighttime sky

Fiery lanterns on blackened dye

The warmth of chaos in amber flames

Transfixed, I stand and forget my name

Meditation for the insane

I spit petrol into angered air

Laugh at the chaos and step back from the flare

What is a fire without anarchy and wonder?

Rainy weather is more interesting with thunder

And alcohol

Alcohol makes poets of us all

Fireworks in the sky

Become sulphur pathways to neon new worlds

Gunpowder trails in midnight ink

The amber spheres that elevate in my drink

As I clamber over roof tiles to get a better view

And settle down with you

My coat on your shoulders

Flames in my eyes reflecting yours

Souls conveyed like open doors

Fairy dust sprinkled across the atmosphere

As you accompany me

Snuggled in

Let the night begin...

© Richard Withey. All rights reserved.