They're Taboo
Hi, little caterpillar — my, you’re very elastic,
You’re like an accordion, it’s amazing, fantastic.
Your body movements tell me you’re into the gymnastic;
No, I won’t copy you, as the results would be drastic.
You’re incredibly nimble, a contortionist, maybe,
And you can stroll upside-down, as you’ve stickability.
I would love your suction pads, for there’s so much I could do,
I’d be forever climbing, and enjoying each new view.
I often see you clinging to the shrubs around my home,
It’s really quite astounding just how far you tend to roam.
It’s clear you love my garden, as I notice regularly
A row of tiny teeth marks, and a telltale trail, you see.
Yes, you’re a veggie lover, a vegetarian like me,
Hence you’ve made yourself at home in my backyard grocery.
It’s not that I mind sharing — but the lettuces — please don’t touch,
As I find summer salads suit my taste buds very much.
You’re interesting to watch, and what’s more, you’re very smart,
Your ability to metamorphose is state-of-the-art.
First, you’re a caterpillar, next, a chrysalis, then a butterfly,
Fluttering your wings at me, showing off how you can fly.
Hmmmm, yes, you’re quite a mystery, you’re a marvel, in fact,
The way you metamorphose is a stunning high-class act.
I don’t know how you do it — it’s just too high-tech for me —
But amazingly you can, and, very naturally.
Well, little caterpillar, it’s time I was on my way,
I’ll try and catch up with you some other time, another day.
Just hang around my garden, I’ll keep an eye out for you,
But don’t touch the lettuces, okay? Remember: They’re taboo.
By Lance Landall
