Mayflies
Having no functioning
mouths, adults do not eat,
and live their lives
never knowing
the pleasure of food
and drink, the bitter
bite of dandelion greens
with the crisp notes
of prosecco rolling over
the tongue. Instead,
they engage in aerial
sex, often in swarms
above water, many dipping
to the surface to lay eggs,
some submerging, while
others die unfulfilled,
eaten. Who’s to say
which life burns brighter;
even knowing these facts,
still I dream of flight.
“Mayflies” is included in my chapbook, From Every Moment a Second. It was also the inspiration for the artwork gracing the cover. I am in debt to Stephanie L. Harper for providing such a vivid and appropriate piece of art for the book. Available at Amazon.Com and Here
O at the Edges 
Wow
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Thank you, Beth!
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Wow indeed. This is so exquisite and vivid, Robert. It’s a powerful piece and I feel it’s quite reflective especially with how we can view ourselves and life—oblivious, seeking more within others, or just being unfulfilled. Never thought of it that way with insects though, but it makes sense and it’s a universal feeling. I love how your audio recording brings the poem to life even more. Beautifully written!
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Thanks so much, Lucy. I’m so pleased that it resonates for you. The world of insects is fascinating!
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