Pest Control

Nina Gravlee / V MAG AT UVA

my softly spotted lanternfly

see how I lovingly shined my shoes

as I crush you undertow

embrace my gravity of greater good

for crimes of consumption

your conviction has come

you understand, of course

blame the visibility of this cruel path

resent first your own scarlet accents

I harbor you no ill will, soft one

your tragic part you’ve played so well

allow that to settle your nerves

fold your thin wings now

still those trembling legs

this final gift of absolution

spend your last breath on my thanks