Burn

I am destruction
The fervor of my fiery temper wreaks havoc upon ignition
Sparked and left ablaze to drift, knowing only to burn
If you ignite me, I will stop you

I forsake the very ground that feeds me,
betraying my kin with pollution
My mother Earth and brother Air, the reasons I sustain
If you trust me, I will disappoint you

I reach the peak of heat to call you from its threshold,
sending signals of longing to be put out
I tease with the ability to purify
If you desire me, I will have you

My flames all but whisper in your ear,
but try to tame and provoke my ruthless retaliation
For I suffocate if confined
If you touch me, I will hurt you

My sincere moments of warmth on bitter cold nights,
imbalanced in the ash that trails behind me
I won't cease to consume all that lies in my path
melting metal and flesh, filling chimneys and lungs, in pursuit of more
If you get too close... I will burn you

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Michael Maul

Date: 9/25/2023 11:27:00 AM

This was a great read

Jessica Wheeler
Date: 10/6/2023 8:20:00 AM

Thank you, Michael!

Gary Radice

Date: 9/16/2023 12:49:00 AM

Another great metaphoric write Jessica. Having read your poem I decided to google what fire can symbolize and came across this: "This classical element is a symbol of fiery emotions. These fiery emotions are love, hate, passion, compassion, empathy, and anger." All human traits as well of course. I sense you've managed to cleverly weave these into your personification. Sometimes / many times poems do not get the comments or recognition they deserve here. Never let that put you off. Cheers - Gary

Jessica Wheeler
Date: 9/18/2023 7:43:00 PM

Gary, thank you so much for your kindness and encouraging words!