Informal poetry exercises and techniques

¶ … Flames of my Father

The object that I have in mind burns brightly when you light it, emits a warm and comforting glow, can be colorful, is traditionally designed as slim, can possibly give off a pleasant scent when lit (aromatherapy). It is multi-faceted with different layers, and has a flame.

I wanted to compare a candle with my father, because I cannot think of any other person who resembles a candle (figuratively speaking, of course). Like a candle, every time my father enters a room, he lights it up by being an incredibly kind, decent, and social person who is not afraid to talk to anyone, not even total strangers. His warm-hearted personality he inherited from his mother, my paternal grandmother. Candles are traditionally slim, and my father happens to be a naturally slim person (it runs on his side of the family). My father has many layers like a candle, but can also be rather predictable day-to-day. Most candles have a nice smell, and my father wears nice cologne/after-shave, which is a comforting, familiar smell. Candles have flames, and when ever my father gets angry, watch out; his temper can almost bypass that of a burning flame.

My father, slim as an elegant and stately candle

Burns brightly - hot temperament - but usually warm, kind, and loving.

He will burn you when he's angry,

But that flame doesn't blaze too often.

My father, layered and multi-faceted,