Poetry Explorer- Classic Contemporary Poetry, I BUILD THREE FIRES, by PAT POE



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Classic and Contemporary Poetry

I BUILD THREE FIRES, by                    
First Line: Build me a fire, lover
Last Line: And leave me alone.
Subject(s): Fire


Build me a fire, lover,
before time to go.
Your breakfast is ready,
the way that you like it,
go eat while it's hot.
I've bottles to warm
and babies to feed,
dozens of dishes
that have to be washed.
My wedding band shines
in the hot soapy water.
Joy shines in my heart
on this cool autumn day.
Build me a fire, lover,
I haven't time;
let it crackle and burn
and whisper of love.

Come back, lover,
and build me a fire.

Husband, build me a fire
before you go --
go to your office of chromium plate,
your shiny new office
and sleek secretary.

Your breakfast is ready,
go eat while it's warm.
The children aren't up --
and it's time for their school.
My duties are calling ...
Please build me a fire
this cool autumn day.

Don't build a fire, stranger,
I'll build it myself
with slow-moving hands
grown rough with the years.
Flames would crackle and laugh
at your plump useless fingers.
Your breakfast is ready,
go eat it alone.
I've no hunger for food,
and no duties are calling.
I'll build me a fire
on this cool autumn day.

Go quickly, old man,
and leave me alone.





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