Global Haiku • Fall 2016
Dr. Randy Brooks

The Candle Flickers

by
Alexander Erickson

The candle flickers is a collection of haiku I have chosen to be representative of my years here at Millikin. I chose the title because of the moments in my life that caused my metaphoric candle to flicker. By this I mean events in my life that have tested me and my  confidence in myself, my relationships, and choices. I hope you enjoy these haiku as a look into some of the obstacles I have overcome, and to which I believe, many people can relate.

Reader Introduction

Alex Erickson provides a sense of unique imagery in his work that floods the mind with intense emotion. After reading the candle flickers, I felt as if I were thrown into the thrashing sea of college life, and  it was an exhilarating journey. Although frightful at times, this work encompasses many facets of an overwhelming college life. I would recommend this collection to those who enjoy experiencing the beauty of nature because it is often illustrated. I would also recommend this to college students or anyone looking to get a glimpse of college life. ~ Jake C.

a warm breeze
water, sand, and sunscreen
my throat still burns

miles out
miles to get back
alone running with God

from under the swell
the sun and I
swim to each other

merry christmas
smiling so wide
her eyes begin to close

chest pain
she can't inhale
enough November air

reggae music plays
the house floods
with sunlight

her call
goes unanswered
the candle flickers

late autumn
gravity works harder
as we approach the peak

the young man's funeral
no one speaks up—
that was the problem

the artists on stage
begin to tune
his fingers twitch