The Crustacean Poem by Catherine Habbie

The sharp claws pierced me
And I looked down to see
Why, it's a baby crab nipping me!

It was so adorable and cute
I stood there mesmerised but resolute
It played me like a flute

I watched it move its claws
It certainly didn't need paws
And had enough strength in its jaws

Then suddenly, it pierced my skin
To this feeling, there was nothing akin
Why it was just a bundle of sin!

It bore deep through me
Reaching hidden spots no one could see
I hastily threw it back into the sea

The dear little thing came back to me
It too was in need you see
And it pried all my secrets cruelly

No muscle did spare the gentle pincer
My heart! It had a sharp incisor
It chewed with pain, the little mincer!

Heartless, I thought the little brute
Hiding in an exterior so cute
Speaking volumes although so mute

Then the little crab suddenly moulted away
Its discarded shell made me sway
Inside was a vivid array

Criss-crossed patterns and complex designs
Why this was a lesson in science
I quickly tried on its back to draw lines

It shuddered hurriedly away
For it was now as soft as clay
Inside was a baby twas clear as day