Pique
Wildfire flames
too fierce to tame,
struck by storms
night after night.
Starting with sparks
so small
they thrive
in dry heat.
Too fierce
to contain,
charred scars
reveal the rage.
Clear kindling.
Let cool waters
temper these times.
Tend the fire,
contain the heat,
reclaim blue skies
and smoke-free nights.
Why Pique?
“Pique” is a personal favorite. As a noun, it describes irritation or resentment, which is the exact feeling you get when someone tells you to calm down. As a verb, it means to stimulate interest or curiosity.
The word comes from the French piquer, meaning “to prick” or “to sting.” That etymology explains the duality perfectly. It applies equally to a sharp, defensive reaction and a sudden, sharp interest.
While working on the wildfire poem, the idea of a tiny spark kept coming back. A small prick. A brief flash. Something seemingly insignificant that grows into an absolute beast.
Ideally, the poem piques your interest, not your temper.