THE CANDLE

YOU

are the candle
that ignites passion
so fiercely in my chest.

The flickering flame
radiating rays of hope
to brighten my nightmares.

Your scent purifies
the atmosphere around
to arouse my senses.

That enduring fire
warming my nudity
without charring skin.

As your supple wax
slowly slides downwards,
it helps to solidify me.

My brightest light
on clouded nights
when the stars shy away.

 

 

K.G. says…
A conscious departure from my usual style of poetry [because I ran out of rhymes!]. The structure and subject matter also afforded me the opportunity to be a bit visually artistic. Notice how the verses are positioned in the shape of a candle, with the “YOU” highlighted like a flame? Yes, I think I deserve some accolades for that to be honest!
Anyway, who is the “YOU” in this piece? Could it be a romantic interest, family member, friend, mentor or God himself? Well, that’s up to the reader to interpret. Essentially it comes down to whoever is your shining light in moments of darkness. This is an ode to the lights in our lives. Let’s appreciate them.

A 10 (A TEN)

Are my chances high or nought? Let me know
Give me a chance and cross the nought; tic-tac-toe
Not shy to taste your lips in the open; alfresco
Because totty you’re a 10 like Francesco

I’ll let go of all others if you’re mine to hold
Take me off the market because I’m already sold
You won’t carry burdens, I’ll lighten the load
Darling, you’re A 10 like Great Cambridge Road

Go 10! You’re on another level like a Super Saiyan
Not rich but if you want attention, I’ll keep paying
My persistence is born out of will, like Jaden
I prayed to find a 10, now I can say Amen

 

 

K.G. says…
A paper-and-pencil children’s game. Outdoor eating. An Italian football [soccer] legend. A dual carriageway in North London. A character from a Japanese anime. Hollywood father and son. What do all these seemingly random things have in common?… Absolutely nothing.
However, I was in the mood for a bit of wordplay and popular culture references so they all came in handy. If Shakespeare (through Romeo) can compare Juliet to a summer’s day, then why not compare a fair maiden to a tarmac road in North London?!
Disclaimer for the PC brigade: I don’t actually believe that women’s appearance (or men’s for that matter) should be numerically rated. This is purely light-hearted, tongue-in-cheek flattery; and NOT intended to be misogynistic.

BEAUTIFUL IN ANY LANGUAGE

Her beauty is easily apparent through the eyes
Though it’s not the only way she can mesmerise
As gracious as she is gorgeous; pleasant surprise
Could compliment continuously and speak no lies
An alluring outer aura alongside a warm inner glow
Presence that raises smiles when spirits are low
A queen who oozes radiance from crown to toe
Beautiful in any language – nzuri, jamila, beau

Her glamour entices effortlessly, for it’s so natural
Entwined with a persona as pure as a rare mineral
Various virtues to offer beyond just the physical
Withholding appreciation for her would be criminal
Truly one of a kind; she embodies the old adage
Able to fill a hollow heart and tame a rogue savage
She inspires healing where there’s been damage
Aulelei, sundar, mooi – beautiful in any language

 

 

K.G. says…
Quite possibly my personal favourite of all the poems I’ve written. A lot of my readers also seem to like it. And to answer a question which has been asked of me several times… yes, it was inspired by someone that I know (or at least how I once saw that someone). 
The piece is a tribute to an almost flawless figure; an appreciation of every aspect of her being. To that extent, the term “language” in this context doesn’t simply refer to spoken tongues. Rather, it encompasses everything that makes her [the subject] who she is – her outward appearance, character, values, influence on her environment, etc. Simply put, she possesses beauty in every way conceivable. Now all I have to figure out is where/how to meet such a mythical individual for real!