you know I am but the match
made to be consumed by what I love
ignited, burned, then left in ashes
when my words are wooden in my mouth
and you can almost smell the smoke
almost taste the extinguishing tears.

I know I should be happy, but pent up
with one who only loves in smoke signals
wandering the darkness, holding a knife
and a reason to consume close to my heart,
a bitter spark of doubt is fanned whenever
I search, but find no fire in your eyes.

if there was any justice in this life
crying could set the world aflame
and the oil streaking down your face
would catch the lamp shaking in my hand
catch the flames smothering inside us both
and burn this wretched place from our collective guilt.

I cannot quench my burning thirst.
finally my hands clasp around your ember
only to find you were never quite lit.
the lighter flickers, offering another drag at love
but this time, when I raise flame to lips,
I promise myself I will never trust again.