All kids are much like the Phoenix
They learn by burning their fingers
One way or another
Which upsets their mother
It is part of the rite of growing up
Playing with fire I remember well
That urge to make something flare up
On open fire somewhere
And with such little care
Then crying our with pain and won't shut up
Guy Fawkes day such a tempting night
When November 5th flames abound
Cracklers spark and rockets fly
High in the darkening sky
Dogs are scared they will keep their barking up
Mind you dogs like to lie by a fire
Has the best place 'til cat come in
Insists taking pride of place
Singes fur pushed out of room
She miaows at door and will not give up
There is so much more to the fire in your poem, cosiness, continuation, awe
ReplyDeleteNice one Robin
Much💓love
I used to enjoy those Nov 5th fires too,in my childhood in Tassie. The neighbourhood dads would create a big fire and all the families would stand around, rugged up, kids holding sparklers or letting off crackerjacks....
ReplyDeleteI was never a one for playing with fire, it scared me, and Guy Fawkes Night was OK as long as we were safe in my grandparents’ garden with sparklers. As I got older, I was worried by the threat of bigger putting bangers through the letterbox or the bonfire getting out of control. I much preferred to be safe inside and watching fireworks through the window. Like my cats.
ReplyDeleteH.O.T write, robin. Salute!
ReplyDeleteGetting burn--and learning from, one hopes--is certainly part of growing up. And like your poem says, not just for the children. It takes a special kind of parent to know when to intervene right away, and when to allow the child blister a bit.
DeleteI was always fascinated by fire. But was always told never to play with it. Learning to light campfires and holding sparklers was enough for me to understand the power it holds.
ReplyDeleteSome of us will only learn when we feel the fine hairs on our arms begin to singe...and some won't even learn then.
ReplyDeleteI have feared fire for as long as I can recall .... your Phoenix poem is wonderful.
ReplyDeleteThis is such a comforting and peaceful scene, and your words are the same, much needed for me at this particular time.
ReplyDeleteBrings back memories, Robin. Nice write.
ReplyDeleteI've been teen to a couple of Guy Fawkes Night bonfires, I didn't know the Aussies did that. Also, my sister and I used to play with matches but never burned anything bad or got caught.
..
My Guy Fawkes Night bonfires were in London in the 00's. I have a few pictures o my other active blog.
Delete..