The Candle and the Darkness

[Bella]

My first 'adult' attempt at poetry - inspired by then lover (and Elvis Costello!)


Although our lives were dark, we did not light the candle at first,
Practical heads wisely perceiving it unlikely to last…
But hearts conquered as passion flared –
We held the match together and dared to
Brighten each other’s paths however briefly they were to cross
“Nothing ventured, nothing… lost?”

Sweet scents wafted through the night
First, gentle flickers of light – turning to
Splutters and a raging flame licking the wax
And creating forms of pinnacles and arching backs
‘Til intense heat melted this into a steady flow
Making the fire return to a comforting glow.

Our candle was lit all too few times
For I made you blow it out before we reached our prime
Fearing that the longer it burned
The more mess it could make in the end…

Plunged into sudden darkness and fright
I sought one which might last – but it would not light
Not a glimmer – why? This one should be visible to all – day and night.
I try for two weeks to make it ignite – so far in vain.
Do I give up now or hope, in time, it will spark then burn bright?

I think of our candle and regret it was snuffed out so soon,
Wish that its beauty could still be enjoyed in full like the phases of the moon
Explored until it eclipses, emotion having run its natural course
When, although burnt out, this time there would be
No mess, No darkness and No remorse.