To Actias Luna (The Luna Moth)
In North America it is agreed:
Your wings with lime-green sheen and violet rails
And eyespots of your clan, Saturniid,
Do grace the woodlands with your lacey tails.
You enter the wide world in larval state
To nourish long for later legacy
In measured focus for a future fate,
Then swoon in your cocoon and exit free!
Although your prime is quite ephemeral,
The lunar light elaborates your flights
Or your repose in mystical apparel.
Then you procreate these precious sights.
Your captivating splendor God bestowed
On mankind to embellish our abode.
Jeff Kemper has been a biology teacher, biblical studies instructor, editor, and painting contractor. He lives in York County, Pennsylvania.
Nice rhyming of “bestowed” and “abode.” Though unfamiliar with the lunar moth, your keen description and the picture are so fitting together.