“Butterflies in Concrete Cities.”

Where do butterflies go in concrete cities?

The paintings on their delicate wings are strikingly bright,

Against a dystopian backdrop made of steel and glass.

They used to chase the scents of lavender and sunflowers,

Before they were violently displaced by smoke and gas.

Many would seek out asylum in the spacious gardens,

Behind the walls of lavish mansions of the upper class.

Kaleidoscopes of them would find safe haven in small towns,

That new urban development projects will soon surpass.

Where would butterflies go in concrete cities?

In this new world, it’s unnatural for one to take flight,

Forcing every butterfly to return to their cocoon.

And it’s frowned upon to stand out with vivid colors,

The butterflies turned to caterpillars, pale as the moon.

But just as asters and roses can sometimes grow from concrete,

Caterpillars can learn to crawl to a different tune.

And I know that if they still remember their former selves,

They can, from the depths of concrete cities, grow their wings soon.

Where will butterflies go in concrete cities?

– Da⁹⁰