After the fire

* after the fire *
Because there is a semblance of
Your smile in the smoke
An allusion hinting to
Your form and presence slight
In a column of heated air
A fluttering nothingness rising up
A political promise in your vows
If all is well so are we
No storm walls or defences
No stamina in face of dark or fear
You are only what you bring in this moment now
The wind may change and blow you away
Your mind could turn away
A different season find a different self
How long you are here you cannot say
For a moment year or day
A column of rising smoke
A plume distinct and strong
Changeable by wind or rain
Who you are is inconsistent
Your heart a worthless compass spins
No true love North attain
To no direction commit
Merely ashes and burnt air
Remains of fire fierce
Blown by winds of change
We never truly stood a chance.