MARBLE FIREPLACE
Pillared on either side, a leaf motif making curious shapes,
Below the great mantle curious pattens of carved grapes,
Perfect in design, creams and white cold colours do show,
Not at all warm looking as other fireplaces I did know.
No stain of soot or burn was seen it was all perfectly clean,
I am sure in the wonderful fireplace no heat had been,
Small coals sat in the hearth maybe one day to be lit,
But no kindling was seen at all, no wood or paper did sit.
Even the brass framework shone bright as the sun’s glow,
I cannot imagine any fire burn or any comforting heat show,
No smoke up the chimney , no fire irons anywhere at all,
If I sat by it in the winter, I think I would wear a shawl.
Looking at the beauty and grace of that much too pretty face,
It brought no thought of comfort just a picturesque fireplace,
A fireplace should show signs of living signs to love there,
A fireplace should let you know warmth is found everywhere.
(Millicent) Ann Margetson July 14, 2003