The Kerosene Lamp Poem by Juan Olivarez

The storm has knocked out all the lights.
And all is dark in this stygian night,
A scratching sound and a match ignites,
Bathing the room in a ghostly light.

On the table is placed an ancient friend,
Whose warmth and cheer has no end.
My fathers old kerosene lamp starts to glow,
With a wonderful old flame I know.

From early in childhood flow memories,
As that wonderful smell puts my heart at ease.
And chases the darkness with it's mystic light,
In the house is refuge from the night.

A tear appears and runs down my cheek,
As happiness engulfs my soul once weak.
And bolsters me with new found strength,
To allow my spirit peace at length.

The kerosene lamp, a comfort so rare,
Has warmed the house with tender care.
It's glow permeates the darkest gloom,
Bringing joy back to all the room.

6/12/10 29 palms ca.