Bonfire Nights

It started with a spark

that like a drop in still water

rippled

until the small softly undulating ripples

became delicate foamy waves

and the waves grew

with each nod and affirmation

of declared righteousness

plunging fists pushing the air

and stomping feet splashing the puddles,

determined to shake the earth and sky

a wildfire started

by the mere flutter of a butterflies wings

fanning an ember

so she wouldn't, herself, get burned.

a tsunami of impulsive fire

raging

fueled by laissez-faire,

devil-may-care,

loathing

and zealous "saintly" fear.

But One should always mind their numbers

their tongues, and their company

It started with a spark

but it ended with thirteen graves

and bonfire nights