Wet Wood

I “published” this piece in an earlier version of this space. When I posted it, I had no idea why I did it. This time, I know exactly why I am sharing it. Of course, I will no sooner tell you that reason than I would tell you what the poem “means.” I know what I meant all those years ago when I wrote it. But I have changed considerably since 1987. I wonder what the poem means for me now. I wonder what it might mean for you.

Wet Wood

Heat dances across glowing embers

The wood crackles loudly as it shoots darts

There’s heat—but not enough

There’s fire—but not much

The wood is wet

It dampens my heart as it dampens my fire

Though I work feverishly

Though I work endlessly

The blaze is rarely glorious

And the time spent in the warmth of the glow

Is always too short

The wood is always wet

And it dampens my heart as it dampens my fire.

Andrew Kronenwetter

1987