Light-Keeper

Filling up my bucket, I pour light on each star,
like liquid silver.


Carefully, I tuck my sleepy children into the dark abyss,
coloring them as I go. I decant some deep amber into Capella
and a drop of garnet for Betelgeuse.


Each color is hand-picked, to match the star’s personality.
Last of all, I settle on the hue for Altair
—My icy white diamond.


When they grow stronger, for their amusement,
I shall craft some planets from the leftover dust.


For now, I must keep pouring light on them.
Caressing each one in turn.
Calling its name.