While I pondered, gently numbing

From some drink that I imbibed

I saw through blurred, uncertain vision

Something at my fireside.

Within the gas logs flames that danced

A mesmerizing waltz,

Appeared a form of loveliness

That still my heart exhaults.

 

I hesitated, staring deeply

At this sight perplexing

As one might the moon’s  great face

In mindless reflecting.

There in a gown of gold and red

She twirled in pirouette,

Each movement to surrender thoughts

Too precious to forget.

 

Then, shaking my gray-headed mane

I brought myself to sober

And realized such fantasies

Were those of a voyeur.

"Another drink!", I gruffly mused,

While from the table side

Another cube of cooling ice

Succumbed to suicide.

 

Then suddenly, a pop, a hiss

As embers one by one

Sought to gain my laxed attention

As though engaged in fun.

And as one might, with waning time

A last great effort make,

Before my gazing, blazing eyes

She flared for mischief sake.

 

Next to my fireside rug she strayed

And danced most joyfully

Upon the frayed and loosened weave

Her taunting lights for me.

Most alluring and concerting

She climbed my shabby chair

Still in a stupor, I confess,

I thought to kiss her there.

To my dressing gown she poised,

The edges gleaming bright,

Then very gently kissed my lips

Within her sultry flight.

But I, so paralyzed, admit

That in those last moments

I felt an excess of delight

That exceeds all atonements.

 

So, here before this phantom fire,

Within this ashen house,

I sit and wish a bright return

Of such sweet flaming spouse.

Now somewhere she may search for love

Another time and place

And dance for them seductively

In pyromantic grace.