The Collected Writings of Brian J. Mueller

A single poem, met at the right moment, can change a life.

Search and read all 1,834 pieces by Brian J. Mueller — 1,675 poems, 38 prose pieces, and 121 haiku from 12 published volumes. Free to read and share.

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The Gas, The Light, The Heat

The sound of gas flowing troubles me,
but the warmth of the fire compels me to a bargain.
I need the light and the heat,
at least for a couple of hours each morning.

When I turn off the gas
the metal logs will glow red for a while.
Their heat will continue to radiate,
and this space will remain warm for hours.

The fire needs the hissing gas
as I need the light and the heat.
This little life of mine
requires many willing dance partners.