The flamboyant flame stands before me,
framed by garish smoke rising
to meet an aloof sky. The crackling embers —
embarrassed to be seen laying down
on the job — pop out of sight,
making way for flashier lights.
The bonfire demands to be seen, illuminating
places undiscovered, too dark to survey.
Is it possible my caustic humor burns
those who venture too close? Do I dare
take stock of myself now — already gray —
looking to pop where I lay?
Perhaps, just as winds breathe smoke
unexpectedly back in our faces,
I merely shift my perspective.
There’s magic in turning sticks into wands
Phillip Knight Scott | © 2019
Written for Sue Vincent’s Thursday photo prompt: Balefire #writephoto
Photo by Sue Vincent
Often Mumbled Musings 
That last verse is spot on.
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Thanks, Sue!
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Love the final line.
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I’m glad 🙂
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I really enjoyed this poem Philip, for some reason I read it backwards as well as forward and it works both ways . Excellent 💜
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Thanks so much! And that’s interesting to read it forward and backwards – glad to know it still works!
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It does and I enjoyed it 💜
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Fantastic imagery! I loved this piece!
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Thanks so much!
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The pleasure was all mine. You’re most welcome. 🤗
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Not what I expected. Nice one.
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