1978: A fiery tale of childhood pyromania
By Tim Carl
NAPA VALLEY, Calif. — In the style of an epic poem about my childhood that makes a strong case for banned fireworks in the Napa Valley. But first, some photos from yesterday…
Now, the poem…
In the year of '78 a tale unfolds,
A fiery story of pyromania it beholds.
A childhood's mischief, a flame's desire,
In the form of an epic poem, let us transpire.
With access to fireworks before the Fourth of July,
I lit a smoke bomb, flames reaching the sky.
Without permission, near dry grass it did ignite,
But my friends and I quelled the fire's might.
Yet forbidden from the celebration, my heart did ache,
For the Fourth of July, my favorite holiday to partake.
In my family's gaze, the courtroom of their eyes,
I pleaded my case to reclaim my prize.
"Lighting fireworks is an act of love for the nation,
A patriotic endeavor, a joyful celebration.
To honor America's birth, I implore,
Sharing fireworks with friends, memories to adore."
But doubts clouded their eyes, skepticism filled the air,
As they questioned my motives with skeptical stare.
"How can a smoke bomb, thrown with such thrill,
Constitute patriotism? Be cautious still!"
They sought truth in legality, my age they examined,
The matches I used, the youthful flame it enflamed.
Yet undeterred, I fought with all my might,
For innocence and joy, like fireworks at night.
Alas, their wisdom prevailed, restrictions were set,
Fireworks, when not respected, danger beget.
A lesson learned in solitude, wisdom's embrace,
That safety and responsibility forever we must chase.
But as this tale crescendos, a truth shall unfurl,
In the embrace of Napa Valley, where flames did swirl.
Banning fireworks, a wise decision was made,
To protect from wildfires, this land must evade.
For in golden hills and vineyards beauty held sway,
But the threat of flames loomed, shadows at bay.
Napa Valley, sanctuary of vines and green,
Nature's grace, where wine-lovers convene.
By eschewing fireworks' fervor they safeguarded this space,
Preserving its splendor, every fiery embrace.
With caution let us celebrate in harmony with the land,
Gatherings joyous, without sparklers in hand.
So as we gather on this day, liberty's call we remember,
Lessons learned as fireworks' flames ignite our ember.
With caution and respect, we celebrate with grace,
Preserving the magic in a safe and sacred space.
In this epic tale, my fiery quest draws near,
A journey through mischief, where dreams persevere.
May sparks of joy forever dance in our hearts,
Embracing each other and the tales it imparts.
Let us cherish Napa Valley, a land we hold dear,
By heeding the call to ban fireworks, ensuring cheer.
For in this wise decision we protect what is true,
Preserving Napa's beauty for generations to view.
Tim Carl is a photojournalist (and poet) in the Napa Valley