Illuminations (Poetry)

A blazing foil extravagance —
the decorations dazzle with their shine
in contrast to the faded red
crepe paper lanterns we brought out
year after year, and those curling snowflake
cut-outs made in school.

Our Woolworth’s paper chains were cheap
gummed loops of rainbow colours
drab compared to tinsel garlands sold today,
and our twelve tin candleholders
clipped precariously to the tree
can’t compete with forty flashing fairy lights.

As though artificial glamour and this late display
of Victorian nostalgia might invoke
that remembered Christmas magic,
rekindle a real sense of joy,
and bring the spirit back to share
the inner glow of Love’s bright flame.