Glory Sasikala writes

SEDUCTION

Leave it.

The game of love burns!

In the encroaching space

Of that hut

A storm within and without

The wick turned low

Casting ominous shadows

Deceptive

The tongues of flame

Disguised as they are

As your lily-white purity

Your pristine virginity

Your baffling innocence.

Your eyes so dark

And all too big for your face.

I keep against the wall

Against the dancing shadows

Just out of reach

Of those flicking arrows -

But your freed soul

Is a forest fire

Burning all

Only aware of your own desire -

Child-like, reaching out

Enveloping, engulfing.

I cannot escape.

Hovering now on the brink

Of Life and Death

A bright light beckons

Light without heat

Benign, well-known shadows

Welcome. I smile

A gentle smile and give up.

And give in

To the all-consuming lethargy.

The flame flickers

One last time

And dies……..

Forever.

My soul, a thread of white smoke.

The Sunrise now

The Hand

That lights my pyre.

Candle Dancers -- Emil Nolde