Pyrophage

We always thank twice
the ones who jumped without the trampoline

because we were to sit in stocks from 8 to 4
with, and tickling us all over, fireants.

But by the fluorescence of those who jumped
I learned pyrophagy,

seeking veins to slake this page
finding still healthy ones to stick pens into

(to screams and gurgles of nostalgia).
I drank that liquid fire to keep me lighted

as I smiled on my seat,
tunneling madly under.

© Tolu Oloruntoba
7.25 pm, October 16, 2014