I. (husked)

Sorrow in the nest
as the last occupied shell
shivers and then cracks.

II. (larval)

Just a hopeful grub
curling toward warm golden light,
waiting for a sign.

III. (chrysalid)

That spring day I knew
my fate was in the clouds, I
wrapped myself in silk.

IV. (imago)

The mayfly alights-
its wings weary, the sky bruised
with crimson and gold.