fire needs oxygen
the way I need
you,
but I am too familiar
with suffocation
to keep myself warm

warmth is only fireplace
memories of you
but words and promises
I cannot recall are
not enough for this
november chill in my
bones

I know it rains,
every night
these skies and thunderheads
are not my own
you are only a
candle flame, I know
and toxic rain -
corrosive against melting
wax

but please,
burn a little longer,
only a little brighter
I'll fuel you with firewood
words and sparks of
life

just please don't leave me
in the *cold