Beauty and the Beast

Paul Dance

(Helianthus is the sunflower, Arenicola is the lugworm)

While Helianthus,
sounding like a Greek god
turns her head to catch the sun,
unaware of the problems of UV rays
and how we are all advised
to take cover,
use high factor cream
and wear hats,

Arenicola hides from
daylight, warmth
and fishermen
hoping to catch
sea bass
and other marine delicacies.

The lugworm lives, if not dug up
by men with rods
for 9-12 years,
sunflowers are cut by
flower lovers after
about three months.
Sometimes it pays to keep
your head down.

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