You’re like the Asian beetle
invading my home, taking up residence
in the sunniest places.
You’re like the Asian beetle
pretending to be something you’re not,
colors slightly off, spots imperfect.
You’re like the Asian beetle
exuding a stink when threatened.
You’re like the Asian beetle
swarming my space
looking for any way to get inside.
You’re like the Asian beetle
distasteful
even to man’s best friend.
You’re like the Asian beetle
flitting away
the closer I get.
You’re like the Asian beetle
sending out a scent
to others just like you.
You’re like the Asian beetle
hoovered up
then dumped with the trash.
You’re like the Asian beetle
spinning on your back
helplessly paddling too many legs.
You’re like the Asian beetle
staining my hands
when I squash you.
You’re like the Asian beetle
with your ineffective bite.
You’re like the Asian beetle
dead on my floor
wings exposed.
You’re like the Asian beetle
Harmonia axyridis
Annoyingly there
always
yet slightly out of reach.
-LINDA SANDS