The Village Firefighter

Beneath embered brands of burning roof,
The firefighter waits.
His mask is on; he’s donned his gloves, 
Ready to enter the fiery state.
Once again to battle beast,
Whose heart burns with flaming hate.

On hands and knees he treads with care
Over blackened brittle floor.
Making way through smoke dark rooms
Fighting fear from door to door.
Outstretched arms reach for muffled screams
Heard above the deafening roar.

Hoping to find before too late, 
The source of curdling screams.
 A scenario played all too oft
Within the hero’s dreams.
The task at hand his only thought
And the safety of his team.

Crying, scared a young child waits
For rescue from choking heat.
Then through the blackness something tugs
And pulls his trembling feet.
A Vadered voice says “it’s OK”
And hugs him to the street.

The fire alone remains to beat;
And return to fight he goes.
To find the beast alive and well;
Destroying, as it grows.
He aims his weapon at the seat
And from it water flows.

The devil dies as fire gives in
To the water’s cooling spray.
The house is gone; but at least,
No lives were lost today.
So back he jumps on bright red truck,
And into night he rides away.

In quiet contemplation,
The firefighter stares.
Holding back a hundred thoughts
That known might seem him scared.
But he pushes fear aside,
And treads where others do not dare!
Copyright © | Year Posted 2017


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Date: 6/4/2018 8:55:00 PM
This is a wonderful poem, so well written, depicting the reality a firefighter faces every day, every time they are faced with a fire to fight, Joseph. Congrats on your poem being featured. All the best to you. :) ~ Artsie
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Date: 4/30/2017 11:35:00 AM
This is a just wonderful poem! A fav and 7 for me.
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Soper Avatar
Joseph Soper
Date: 5/1/2017 6:07:00 AM
Many thanks for the kind words. I had great inspiration for this piece. thanks again
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