The Whiskey Taster’s Flavor Guide

Before the Burn

Quietly quiescent
unable to see 
your own flamboyant flammability 
the arcane knowledge 
of a spark's quintessence 
lost for too long 
too late 
the tender tactile flames
candles of ambivalent amber
that lick at burning skin
are casting luscious light 
calling it love 
when it catches you 
when you are set aflame 
then with bittersweet hindsight you know whether 
you will be the one that's reduced to ashes 
in assured self immolation 
or the one to dance in the embers? 
will you pray for an intercessor 
or become the blaze?
Copyright © | Year Posted 2016

Poem

Post Comments

Poetrysoup is an environment of encouragement and growth so only provide specific positive comments that indicate what you appreciate about the poem. Negative comments will result your account being banned.

Please Login to post a comment

Agustin Avatar
October 2, 2025 at 11:38 PM
Thanks for sharing this... exposing your thoughts through your unique poetic style. Meanwhile, I greet you with the love of the Lord, expressed by John 3:16 of the Bible, "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life." Be blessed.
Get a Premium Membership
Turn off ads, get more exposure for your poetry, and get more features with a Premium Membership.
The Whiskey Taster’s Flavor Guide
Book: Diverse Voices: The Poetry of Human Rights and the Pursuit of Peace