What was the last thing I said to you before we went back to being strangers?

I strike a match

so I may adore the untamed fierceness

of the flame‘s brief life.

I do this each day

to remind myself of what once burned within me.

I do this each day

to remind myself that even a spark

can be a fire hazard.

The pursuit is in vain
the journey a fantasy
to my inner sanctum I should return
where resides the true me-

everywhere is the clamour
'  this is the true philosophy
   do not walk in error
   this will set you free'

  the public well is poisonous
  drinking therefrom leads to malady
  give me the pure rain-water
   it will keep me healthy--

   alone in the deepest silence of night
   untainted by the voice of rude humanity
   with the moon and stars as company
   I am content and blessed in my serenity.