By Michael Aaron Gallagher
Up at night
it is you by the fire
gracing me with the
pendulous furtherance of insomnia
proudly donned by your inquisitive nature
I listen for the crackling
of the mesquite firelogs
the red-orange embers
exploding like a fireworks show
through the screen
The smoked aroma leaves
nothing to be desired, except perhaps
a brief reverie from the monotony
of mid-evening
Your voice is less familiar now
As it bends away from the light
a gentle numbness guides my
tranquil body from afar.
Excerpt from Michael Aaron Gallagher’s unpublished book of poetry titled “Firefly.” Copyright © 2003.
The above work is not to be used, reprinted or broadcast without written permission from the author.