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Of Spider Abuse, I'D Not Be Accused

It was never my intent to collect the creepy crawlers
but I couldn't make myself swat them with a broom.
I thought they might be useful one day, on brawlers
who make trouble, like aphids on roses in bloom.

So, the meshed bag became the receptacle I used
to keep them alive. One by one, I joined them together
but fed them daily. Of spider abuse I'd not be accused!
I watched them interact in the prison tied with a tether.

There was no fighting among them when there were three
Respectfully, they kept their distance in separate corners
even when I threw in a fly, a moth and a tiny dead flea.
I wondered if they died, would there have been mourners?

It seems arachnids could teach humans a lesson in humanity
When my bag began to move on its own, I knew it was time
to set them free. You may question my sanity and the inanity
of releasing the creatures but keeping them would be a crime.

Where would they best be turned loose in one fell swoop?
The rose garden! Infested with pests on which they'd feast!
I opened the bag carefully and they marched as a troop,
conquering heroes of the Rose War, each bug eyed beast!

Copyright © Lin Lane | Year Posted 2023

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Nancy Kaufman Date: 6/19/2023 6:58:00 AM HI Lin, I wonder whoever won this strange contest? I love your understanding and respect for spiders and their purpose though. Enjoyed . Login to Reply Lin Lane Date: 6/19/2023 7:03:00 AM Hi Nancy. I don't think the contest has ended. Thanks for liking my entry, and yes, it was a bit of an unusual theme, but a challenging one.

David Kavanagh Date: 6/16/2023 2:53:00 PM A weird contest theme, but one that can take us all kinds of places Lin, I’m not a big fan of spiders in the house, so they usually get the broom, although I must admit to feeding them other insects in the garden, so on balance I’m fair lol! A madcap poem with unhinged humour, just what the contest sponsor wanted, best for contest, cheers David Login to Reply Lin Lane Date: 6/16/2023 3:44:00 PM It is a rather strange theme, and I don't know Matt, so I've no clue as to what he's interested in reading. This is where my mind drifted, so it's what I wrote. I don't mind spiders and as long as they leave me alone, I'll not take a broom to them. Thanks David.

Sotto Poet Date: 6/16/2023 12:33:00 PM Lin, your poem showcases exceptional aesthetics by means of its striking imagery. Spiders, despite being commonly disregarded, possess practical value. It is indeed accurate that they impart a lesson to mankind. Best wishes for the contest Login to Reply Lin Lane Date: 6/16/2023 12:54:00 PM Thanks, Lasaad. My poetry has been a titch whimsical and off kilter lately but Que sera! Thanks!

Victor Buhagiar Date: 6/16/2023 10:59:00 AM It is true that they teach humans a lesson. I do not understand why so many are afraid of spiders unless they live in a nasty environment. Login to Reply Lin Lane Date: 6/16/2023 11:01:00 AM I fear only the recluse and black widow, so care must be taken to be aware. But spiders serve a useful purpose. Thanks, Victor.