How can I do a butterfly count?
When I cannot even correctly count the correct amount?
For all they do is flutter about;
I think I’ve seen that one before,
but it could very well be a different one;
in my mind, there is a doubt;
but, there, there is one that I’ve definitely already seen,
I think, therefore I mean…
… a small tortoiseshell,
upon a leaf, green –
although, it looks the same
as this other similar butterfly,
(it butterflies belief!)
if only they had a name
badge, I could tell which was which;
It would be a relief
if I knew
who was whom,
and whom was who,
and whether I’d already counted them once or twice
(and maybe thrice),
as about the hedges they continue to zoom.
Graeme Sandford 