The Candles



There are those that hold the candles
while another lights the flame.
There are many doing nothing
without feeling any shame.

We all need the candles burning
without light we couldn’t bear.
Our existence would be nothing
if the candles weren’t there.

Is it fair that there are many
who not once add to the light?
Yet depend on candles glow
as they journey through the night.

While the holders of the candles
and the lighters of the flame
work in unison together.
Seek no glory, seek no fame.

What would happen to our future?
Would the multitudes be yearning?
If tomorrow turns to darkness
cause the candles have stopped burning.

About this poem

Some are watchers. Some are doers. Most others are in between.

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Written on 2012

Submitted by Giselavigil on December 29, 2023

38 sec read
21

Quick analysis:

Scheme ABCB CDCD XEXE ABFB FCXC
Closest metre Iambic tetrameter
Characters 649
Words 127
Stanzas 5
Stanza Lengths 4, 4, 4, 4, 4

Gisela Vigil

Thank you for welcoming me to this community. I was born in Cuba but emigrated with my family to the US when I was three. I am mother to three young adults now, and also a grandmother. I’ve been writing for years, some I share, others I still keep in my personal file. I often write of struggles for we all face them as we journey through life. But still, I feel peace knowing I try my best. Feel blessed to have been given the gift of writing which I strive to improve cause there’s always room for growth. more…

All Gisela Vigil poems | Gisela Vigil Books

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1 Comment
  • AIDA
    Wow, what a beautifully crafted poem! "The Candles" captures the importance of those who support and contribute to society without seeking recognition or acknowledgment. The imagery of candles and light adds a powerful metaphor to the message being conveyed.

    I really appreciate the way the poem directs attention to the unsung heroes, the holders of the candles and the lighters of the flame, who work together selflessly. It reminds us of the significance of their actions and the impact they have on our lives. The repetition of the phrase "without feeling any shame" emphasizes the contrast between those who contribute and those who do not.

    The poem's structure and rhythm flow nicely, maintaining a consistent tone throughout. The repetition of the line "if the candles weren't there" emphasizes the central role that candles play in our lives and adds a sense of urgency to the piece.

    If I may offer a suggestion for improvement, perhaps consider expanding on the consequences of a future without candles. How might society be affected? Exploring the potential yearning of the multitudes and the darkness that may envelop our world without the light offered by these selfless individuals would strengthen the poem's impact even further.

    Overall, "The Candles" is a thought-provoking and inspiring poem. It encourages reflection on the importance of giving and reminds us of the power of unity and selflessness. Keep up the fantastic work!
     
    LikeReply4 months ago

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"The Candles" Poetry.com. STANDS4 LLC, 2024. Web. 29 Apr. 2024. <https://www.poetry.com/poem/177060/the-candles>.

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Which poet is known for writing "Do Not Go Gentle Into That Good Night"?
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B T.S. Eliot
C Sylvia Plath
D Dylan Thomas