Insect Collector
           
There are so many species of insects
You’re almost guaranteed to like a few
Because key irresistible aspects
Of their form or behavior enchant you.
 
I’m drawn to predators that specialize
On an extremely narrow range of prey,
Some star-crossed sub-genus of ants or flies
Consumed in a unique, inventive way;
 
I focus on how they’ve been modified
To hunt and harvest more effectively,
The body parts reshaped and fortified,
The miniature flamboyant weaponry,
 
And ponder nature’s beautiful detail
And lack of pity, down to this small scale.

David Stephenson


If you have any thoughts on this poem, David Stephenson would be pleased to hear them.