Paper Angels

Hand in hand they dance between
my childhood memories,
each with slightly crooked wings
where scissors slipped in hands
made too excited to hold still.

Strung across the mantelpiece
they watched as turkey
disappeared with all the trimmings,
Puddings flamed and faces reddened
with the glow of glut and wine.

Quiet and still they listened as
the queen gave out the speech that
adults failed to hear above their snores,
whilst youth's indifference played
games with new got toys.

Soundlessly they screamed as
Twelfth Night brought their end
in heat and smoke to join their
years past sisters in the embers
of another passing yule.

Ephemeral reminders now
resigned to days gone by,
Those insubstantial effigies
that once my hands produced in joy,
Now live in reminiscence lost, alone.

Written for a club Christmas Song Title Prompt.