Blast you insidious reptile slithering
Among the leaves and flowers withering,
Out from my doorstep from this path exempt,
Oh little worm, sad object of contempt.
Thou of naked creeping infamy begot
Man’s ill treatment bearing wicked maggot,
All fearing children turn from you blindly
For nature has dealt with you unkindly,
Cloaking you in garment that comes undone,
Be gone you sleek and slimy limbless one.
Painful instrument of remorse growing,
Yet your chore disclose God’s wisdom showing,
Well even worms must have some useful ways,
Observe they multiply both nights and days.
Claire V. Bogdanos 