Poets logo
Content warning
This story may contain sensitive material or discuss topics that some readers may find distressing. Reader discretion is advised. The views and opinions expressed in this story are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Vocal.

Burning Paradise II

How can this flame continue? -When there's nothing left to burn?

By Josh MorganPublished about a year ago 1 min read
Burning Paradise II
Photo by Oleg Moroz on Unsplash

i'm running on fumes?

no,

i'm suffocating‐

to wake up to a world on fire,

is just death's cruel taunt

and it surrounds me‐

hope has burned completely away,

what's left for this flame to consume?

but me?...

there's no part of me that hasn't died,

nothing left‐

how much time must be lost, burning in this paradise?

i'm burning my feet standing in what suffering has befallen

never do my eyes close,

i lay wake in the absence of freedom's promise

with the polar opposite of my desire dangled over my head

everyday‐

waiting for the last of the sands of time to burn away

in this burning paradise

trapped in a dread whose flame has become existential,

this fire does not consume me as i wish it would‐

i can't even remember, my last breath of fresh air

the same glow that cast out all the darkness of the night,

burns up my memories,

down the bridge to joy,

and brings a fiery torment by the day‐

as the smoke rises,

so the ashes fall‐

in this black rain,

is my burning paradise‐

Mental Healthsad poetryStream of Consciousnessperformance poetry

About the Creator

Josh Morgan

Personally, writing began as a creative outlet, to be a means of processing and venting emotion, but it has become so much more. Something I want not to be just relatable, enjoyable and a good read, but to reach someone who is in need.

Reader insights

Be the first to share your insights about this piece.

How does it work?

Add your insights

Comments (1)

Sign in to comment
  • Esala Gunathilakeabout a year ago

    Nice performance mixed with sadness. Creative.

Find us on social media

Miscellaneous links

  • Explore
  • Contact
  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms of Use
  • Support

© 2026 Creatd, Inc. All Rights Reserved.