Ode to a Candle

You stand alone in the corner of the room,
flickering flame unfazed by chaos.
The wind of voices can’t blow you out.

You stand alone on the red table
in the corner of the room.
Your heart melts
until the light goes.

You stand alone on the red table
on the plain floorboards
in the corner of the room.

You keep your fragrance close,
a secret for only
those who are near.

You stand alone on the red table
on the plain floorboards
next to the family photo
in the corner of the living room.

Slowly, slowly, your wick begins to shrink
like an old man with his walking stick.
For now, you stand alone
in the corner of the room.