Leaf-cutter Ants

• Rozana Eshghighadiri, Grade 9
• Poetry
• 2022

Its funny the way these pecan workers
Transport their bright emerald jewels, letting
You believe theirs only one mind for a million bodies

You’d be surprised by the length they extend,
Surprised that the dance of branches or the
weight of a raindrop has not shaken them
Off their path for the thousandth time

I lay my hand in their way
And watched as these moving musician’s notes
Inscribed meaning upon my skin
Sustaining the melody they create in their patterns
Without even resting for a fresh breath

I wish I could’ve joined their orchestra
To flow alongside the veins of the forest
Carrying the flow of nutrients strong like a chain
Whilst being no bigger than a blow of dust