The Starry Night

The hiss and snap of a
firework sky,
a tsunami sky that
rolls up and over
the valley of lights.

The moon sees me
up on the hill,
behind the tree,
trembling from
the sound of the stars,
a fear of the night.

Candlestick (For Aunt Molly)

More than a delicate sconce, this candlestick

Is strength and weight,

Heavy metal, a safeguard against

Any attack.

Laughter echoes in the hollow of its base.

Holding onto

The joy that spread through

Shadowy nights,

With dance and song from the land of Scots

So long ago.

This candlestick burns wax and sparks the dampened lights

Held up by those

who dwell in murky corners, barely

Touching their hope.

But like an alcoholic who burns sweet spirits,

That fire will dim.

Time has tarnished its metal and loosened its frame but, for now,
the flame climbs high.