Paper Fire

She colours in a paper fire,

rubbing a crayon back and forth

and, as she draws, its flames grow higher;

her father smiles, feeling their warmth.

She draws a rocket thats exploding,

with sudden scream, into the sky;

a fire fountain gushing, golden;

firelight fills her fathers eyes.

Then, as their paper fire crackles,

because she craves something to eat,

her daddy draws a toffee apple,

one that is big and red and sweet.

Then draws a penny for the guy;

copper, just like her flame red curls;

round as her grey November eyes,

and says, "Here... penny for the girl".