Charcoal
John G. Young, M.D.
After adjusting logs
In the fireplace,
I sat back on the couch,
A blanket over my knees,
To watch the flames
Envelopment.
Absentmindedly I brought
My finger to my face
And smelled charcoal.
Its presence captivated me--
Stronger than vision,
Warmer than warmth,
I kept bringing my hand
Back up to my face
Though I felt
Like a dog
Returning to sniff
A fire hydrant.
The hearth's aphrodisiac
Ignited me.
I burned
With the logs.