My Fireplace

MY FIREPLACE ?

Glossy veneered mahogany surround.
Simulated marble that's smoothly ground.
Mantle-borne candles and false holly wreath.
Christmas Boxes strewn in the hearth underneath.
Chrome plated pipe from a concealed main.
False coals, brass-trim, simulated again.
Usurping those friendly real living blazes.
In which I saw those strange fiery faces,
Scenes came and went within the glowing ember.
Old chimneys were bigger as I remember.
Allowing access to stoutest Santa Claus.
Coal was more sociable and genial of course.
No ash or images from my new false fire's glow.
Flue is too narrow, obstructed and low.
Privatised gas is efficient, tidy and clean.
But not quite so honest, like Cedric Brown's salary,
possibly even obscene.

by Don Passmore ?