Praying Mantis

Continuation of the species is
a lifelong hazard. Down the mating hours
the male must watch his step and go the course

in bashful prudence, holding back a while
to save his onions. He knows it won't do
to be found napping - in a fierce embrace

his lady's tricks may cleanly sever his
unwary head and grind his instincts in
steel jaws. Her parlor littered with remains

of former suitors, she may ride the tide
regardless, certain that there will be hosts
of future fools whose hormones must compel

them to attempt the plunge into the stark
uncertain realm of reproduction, fraught
with risks, to dance attendance in the dark.