The Flaming Dragon

The Flaming Dragon

There goes the flaming dragon out to sea!
The hand of fire feeds on wooden flesh.
Its smile, carved, remains transfixed with glee;
it knows this month that lives will start afresh.

The dragon’s eyes- they sparkle with delight,
amidst the incensed burden that it bears.
Its head and neck stand proud against the night,
despite the heat it moves yet has no cares.

Shadows stand on the shore watching the boat.
Their thoughts are those of mirth yet too of fear.
As the dragon passed in its flaming coat,
they wonder what will come in the new year.

As new year comes the people must remain
aware of the creature once clothed in flame.

***
AUTHOR'S NOTE: This poem was based on the New Year tradition called 'Up Helly Aa' celebrated in the Shetlands (British Isles) where a replica of a viking boat is burned.