Fireworks

In the nick of time
To save me from the fatal nick
Of steel against wrist
The scent of gunpowder
The urgent starburst of flame
The Italian neighbourhood brought to life
Cries of joy in the night
Save me from myself yet again
How can I choose death?
Life so rich and full abounds
Mere steps from my door
And so I turn the blade
Return it to the kitchen
Put on my winter coat and join my neighbours
Savouring cannoli and sweet wine
I watch the children's faces
And choose to live
No pain is so great that I can't see beauty
In this Italian neighbourhood
With its fireworks and folly
Always there to awaken me
From darkness and despair
In the nick of time