The Flame

Valiantly Flame struggles against Wind
Clinging tightly to the wick it dances about
While Darkness waits anxiously for its friend
To vanquish this invader of its space.

The tenacious Flame moves quickly
Looking for a better grip
But there is scant protection here
And his grasp begins to slip.

He fights and strains slashing at Darkness
Sputtering with exhaustion, moving to and fro
And is yanked violently from his post.
And Wind laughs and Darkness cheers to see him go!

-- Michael Rusk

"The Flame" copyright © 1994, Michael T. Rusk
All rights reserved.