September 7, 2013Discussing Earth’s Insects
A praying mantis perches on the coffee shop doorframe,
the alien is intrigued. He takes out the human’s camera.
Look at how sturdy its skin is,
how mean. Like it will reach out and slice
anything that gets too close.
He wants to know where insects come from.
Where the aliens come from insects don’t really exist.
He wants to know,
What is the difference
between a moth and a butterfly?
She doesn’t know the science
behind classification, the pieces and parts,
something about antennae—smooth club vs. pipe cleaner,
fuzzy vs. shaved.
They are not small birds?
No. No bones.
She explains how she sees,
A moth
is furry, a butterfly’s not. A moth can’t resist light.
The alien considers the distinction.
So, I am the butterfly and you are the moth.
from #38 - Winter 2012