DEFIANT

by Gwen Austin
Copyright 2001


Silver mica twinkles
on broad facade
of granite fireplace

Once cradling Mexican pottery
and mundane matches
the sturdy mantle sports
a stole of cold snow

Empty of welcoming firelight
and friendly flames
the blackened maw 
gapes a frozen yawn

The defiant chimney thrusts skyward
ignoring mangled roof metal
and memories
melded with sodden ash

Yet 

stout andirons
extend their rusting arms

ready

waiting