The Fire Watch.

by Poet on the Piano   Jul 9, 2020


We were restless that
summer, tracking new
fires and mysteries of
the forest, learning why
we chose this spot to
be our home for two and
a half months.

We shared our fears and
conspiracies, when nights
became unpredictable
and the compass didn't
guide us to the solutions
we'd dreamed of.
I swore I once heard your
heartbeat through the
radio, and it ignited in me
a desire to never let you
rest too far from safety.

I never knew my grief
could take other forms
before I met you, but
you brought me back,
each time, when I
had to confront the
caves that trapped
all of my doubts in
one place.

You showed me there's
nothing wrong with
running away, as long
as we someday return
and make peace with
the dying embers.

The world refused to
stay patient with us
forever. The fires blazed,
beyond our control, and
eventually, we had
to evacuate.

We were separated,
and though I never had
the chance to map the
stars with you,
though I imagined your lips
to be a cartographer's
most promising vision,
I'm sure I'll find you again,

even if it's just in the
smoky sunset, when
the sky is once more
set aflame.

____________________

Inspired by the 2016 adventure game "Firewatch", which I just finished playing. The story, scenery, voice acting and soundtrack make it one of my favorite games.

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Latest Comments

  • 3 years ago

    by Milton

    This is enjoyable to read. I like the part with the fires blazing and I just like how the imagery of a forest stayed in my mind throughout the poem after it was mentioned it was home. It's a nice touch!

  • 3 years ago

    by Kitty Cat Lady

    Hi MA,
    Even without the gaming inspiration, this poem stands alone as a fantastic piece.

    "I never had
    the chance to map the
    stars with you,
    though I imagined your lips
    to be a cartographer's
    most promising vision,
    I'm sure I'll find you again"
    ^
    Goodness! This conveys so much, maybe regret but also hope.
    It's all beautifully written and although I'm not a gamer, it's made me curious about the Fire Watch. Well done indeed. :-) x
    =^.^=

  • 3 years ago

    by Liz

    I love that this was inspired by a game. I think I might want to play it now!

  • 3 years ago

    by Milly Hayward

    As kids we used to camp out and talk about the World and the Universe knowing there was a warm dry home to go to whenever we wanted it. Its hard to imagine what it would be like to be living rough and scared, seperated from those we love. Yet there ate thousands in that position. Ive not heard of the game but it sounds like serious fun . Thought provoking piece. Milly x

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