Light, An Inspiration

A golden candle burned for a time 
Its flickering flame cast shadows 
Where it wished, and lit other places 
Continuously, leaving him wondering why 
The word that occurred to him was “de-lighted”

At times it shone so brightly he saw 
Light in places only rarely seen, if ever shared  
Why did this candle light such places  
As no other does or has done in a lifetime?

At times it flickered so that he was almost certain 
It had burned out, never to return. 
Still an ember glowed and the candle flamed anew, 
Each reappearance somehow making it more precious.

Now at last it has expired, at first without explanation 
Leading to hope anew, but then it shone its light 
On something somehow strange and dark, 
Leaving him in darkness as before.