If We Burn
What flares instead to replace our
privileged nights? And which
assemblage of words could reorder these
deaths into comprehension,
change I can’t breathe from epitaph
to actuated plea for help?
Are words ever enough?
Can we stack our indifference and fear
into a mile-high pyre, and torching it
watch them rise to nothingness,
disappearing through the clouds
into the streaming light of cold, dark stars?
Raise your hands and sing. Blow softly
upon the ember. Inhale and recall.
Do you still feel? Will you breathe?
Every fire needs oxygen.
* * *
“If We Burn” first appeared on this blog in December, 2014. It’s also included in my chapbook, If Your Matter Could Reform.
O at the Edges 
Did this stem from one of your sleepless nights? The desire to torch your indifference and fear and to let them go? I like it…kind of dark, yet hopeful.
LikeLiked by 1 person
No, this was written in daylight, in response to Eric Garner’s senseless death.
LikeLike
I will surely breath. Every fire needs oxygen. Awesome one.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks very much.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Timely, still, and so powerful.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I wish it would never be timely.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I know.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Reblogged this on Praying for Eyebrowz and commented:
Such power in these words. Read more by Robert Okaji at robertokaji.com.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks for reblogging, Leslie!
LikeLiked by 1 person
My pleasure!
LikeLiked by 1 person
This is so beautiful…. so so beautiful…….
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you, Shefali. Much appreciated.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Pleasure is all mine.. 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
Amazing, simply amazing
LikeLike
Thanks very much!
LikeLike