Playing with Matches

Despite my better judgement, I occasionally write poetry.

Playing With Matches

“Matches matches never touch
They can hurt you very much”


I like to grip
Tight with finger and thumb
I like the gritty strike of failure
The three attempts it takes – quick and firm false starts. I like
The breakthrough burst
The roar to life
Flickers of nerve
When held at a dangerous angle
Necessary to light a half-burnt candle
The flame climbing
A delicate threat
To blister flesh.

I never was one for lighters
Hygienic and built-to-last things

I like the easy naked risk of matches
The spindle-necked carcass left behind.