Poems and Thoughts    by Frank Maurer

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Haikuification (Transformation) of R. Frost's, 'Design,' to Haiku. 'Robert Frost's 1922 poem, 'Design,' is from an Italian sonnet that questions whether the dark, coincidental events in nature are dictated by an unseen, malevolent force. Using the imagery of white, innocent elements to depict death, the poem explores themes of malice and existential uncertainty.' Design I found a dimpled spider, fat and white, On a white heal-all, holding up a moth Like a white piece of rigid satin cloth-- Assorted characters of death and blight Mixed ready to begin the morning right, Like the ingredients of a witches' broth-- A snow drop spider, a flower like a froth, And dead wings carried like a paper kite. What had that flower to do with being white, The wayside blue and innocent heal-all? What brought the kindred spider to that height, Then steered the white moth thither in the night? What but design of darkness to appall?-- If design govern in a thing so small. Haikuification of 'Design' (Frank Maurer) I found a white moth Dimpled spider, fat and white Holding up that moth. Holding up that moth Like a white piece, satin cloth Mixed with death and blight. Ready to begin Morning like a witches' broth A snow-drop spider. Flower like a froth Dead wings like a paper kite Flower being white. What had that flower To do with being so white Not innocent blue? What brought the spider To steer the moth in the night So what but design? What but design of Darkness, design to appall In a thing so small? Frank Maurer 14 July 2026 1200 Hours.