My first three letters dance across a page My last seven are the best, none can upstage But right before the end is me, never last, but one away

I can spark a flame with just a strike, or pit two teams in a game alike. I’m found when partners fit just right. Tell me my name, both day and night.

Red, pink or purple inside, big or small, Touch me, twist me, I’ll rise tall. I’m made to meet a woman’s kiss, Leaving behind my mark on her lips.

I wear no face, yet cause a frown, I move unseen but drag you down. I’m found in deeds, not in sight, I twist the wrong into a might. Backward I’m live, forward I’m sly, I lurk where shadows never die.

I lie face down in humble display; in reverence, sorrow, or utter dismay. Lowered in posture, not lodged in the waist; the sound may be close, but the meaning misplaced.