A Surprise Attack - a Tale in Rhyme of a Spider Big-Time

Linda Ann Nickerson

My weeds were growing tall and strong
In places they did not belong;
So I set out to right this wrong
And nearly heard the angels' song.

Suspended from a yellow bloom
In deepest camouflage costume,
I saw a monster, I presume,
Requiring extra-long leg-room.

His legs were hairy, bent on track;
This creepy, crawly maniac.
With yellow stripes, mounted on black,
He seemed intent upon attack.

This hairy creature with eight feet
Whom I had never hoped to meet
Was eating flies and spinning sweet,
As I most quickly did retreat.

My trowel must have tapped a leaf,
The web, it wiggled, ever brief.
Mister arachnid (Oh, good grief!)
Began to run, just like a thief.

First, I began to fuss and fret,
Then looked him up, out on the 'Net.
And, though I trembled in cold sweat,
The spider posed no poison threat.

I clicked the mouse with clammy palm:
A garden spider, minor qualm.
As I read on, I caught the bomb;
This fearful creature was a mom!

Aboard the web, not far away,
The spider labored on display.
I had to grab a can and spray,
Preventing spiderlings one day!

I'm vigilant for a surprise;
My garden, now I scrutinize.
Because each spider multiplies,
I dare not ever compromise.

Although she's gone, I'm on alert.
I'm itching in my undershirt.
I pull on gloves to dig in dirt,
With spray can ready for a squirt.

Published by Linda Ann Nickerson - Featured Contributor in Lifestyle and Sports

Linda Ann Nickerson brings decades of reporting and a globally minded Midwestern perspective to a host of topics, balancing human interest with history, hard facts and often humor.  View profile

5 Comments

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  • Alban Mehling6/28/2009

    Ribbit Mizpah ;-}}>

  • Melissa Mitchell2/20/2008

    Great poem, I can't stand spiders either! *shudder*

  • Marsha Coles12/19/2007

    We have run ins with these garden spiders every year and though they are very creepy they are good for the garden. They keep insects away from the plants so we leave them be until they seem to be getting too big but I tend to give her a wide birth anyway. Great poem, I have a huge fear of spiders and you protrayed that well.

  • Mary E. Coe9/27/2007

    Loved it.

  • Lori Piper9/27/2007

    enjoyed this!!!

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