Poems for Anna
Whilst most of my writings and poems touch loosly on Anna, these were written specifically for or about her. Included also are a couple of musings about our interlinked lives. This introductory poem was written for her about a present given to her by her future husband on one of her birthdays.
No bouquet of fragrant flowers
or precious jewels.
Not even a sentimental card.
You gave me a fire-lighter!
A practical present, no doubt.
No gift wrapping or pretty ribbons or bows –
just a plain fire-lighter.
I hold it in my hands, its metal cold to the touch.
I ponder on its potential
in the biting Arctic winds
where it will kindle a spark
and generate some warmth in our cold bodies.
I shouldnÂ’'t be disappointed.
Neither the fragrance of flowers
nor the adornment of jewels
would bring pleasure to the senses
out in the wilderness.
But the flame kindled from the tiny spark
will warm our frozen bodies
and enable us to survive the bitter iciness.
We are partners
in our quest for adventure and exploration.
We shall share the kiss of the hot liquid on our lips,
brewed from melted ice
in the flame generated by the fire-lighter.
There will be a time in the future for roses and rings.
For the present
I need the practical tools for survival.
I need my fire-lighter.
