Carpenter Ants

They are black and quick, and
Move to the cryptic signs of their own world.
They meet their fellows seldom,
Preferring to move, move, move,
Carrying their black bodies across earth, and
Wood, stone, water, leaf, door--
When they meet, they pass through black alien lips
A coded kiss full of bliss and venom
Which tells their fellows’ mouths
Their whole history entire.

©2003 James Bolner, Sr.
Baton Rouge
July 27, 2003