Cathy’s poem, “HEARTHSONG” comes from an earlier book of poems titled, “AFTER WINTER.” This poem, however, speaks to that first cold snap of late fall, the setting of the first fire in the fireplace, sitting close and feeling the warmth soothe the body and the soul.
HEARTHSONG
It is the fireplace season
I draw close to the crackling blaze
Envelop all my senses
In the crimson heat
While outside, the northwind cries my name
Between houses, howling
Down the chimney. I remember
Freezing nights when no one spoke
When even fire was not enough
To melt the ice.
Tonight your face
Warms like an ember
Your hands stroke me softly
Leaving trails of fire inside
I close my eyes
Immersed in woodsmoke incense
Savoring the the burning smell
Of ancient lumber, fallen timbers
The past is only fuel now
To thrust me forward
I shall not look back again
The windows rattle, rain hits sideways
You look up at me
And smile.
To read Cathy’s previously posted poem, “I Am Looking,” – click here
So beautiful and really touching. Thank you for sharing this!