Fireflies

Playing a game of let’s pretend we’re stars,
Fireflies spark in June’s night-time grass, becoming
Imitations and reflections of heaven’s fire balls.
With rhythmic signals, like Morse code,
They talk to one another, recognize their own kind,
And sport and frolic and create more fireflies.

Here, where all seems innocent, a female trickster
Lies in wait. Using imitation and reflection
Of another’s secret code, she lures an unsuspecting
Male to his death—and her supper.
Ah! Dastardly deed! Yet this too is nature
And must have meaning in the scheme of things.