Burning Envy
by Jeslyn Olson
Their attention a brand
Searing my skin
Envy so bright I can’t help but close my eyes
Yet the stars still find me
Burning brighter
Envious for a love unattainable
Caged in heavenly prisons
The heat of their gaze a blast furnace.
Looking up from love’s embrace
I pity their helpless state
They darken
I cling tighter.
Remembering my skin is made of tinder
And their attention a lit match
They spark back to life.
I can only escape their piercing gaze in daylight
Under the kindness of the sun.
At nightfall they return,
Brandishing their irons
They seek me out
The envious stars.