a long cold
forbidding night
the world
crackles
beneath
echoing steps
the frozen snow
squeals underfoot
shivering
lost
alone
seeking what shelter
can't be found
ready to sit
sleep
surrender

a whiff of
wood-fire
a flicker
barely seen
spark of hope
closer
warmer

a clearing
small band
of kindled
kindred souls
the light
and heat of
warm words
thawing
icy heart
a hot cuppa
soothing
a place to rest
surrounded
by those
who saved
their own lives
cleared space
gathered wood
piled what little
they had left
and lit the
last match they had