Stan Dunn

About the Bug

            from words found in The Metamorphosis by Franz Kafka



Gregor's armor plated back,
legs waving helplessly,
brown fluid issuing from his mouth,
dripping on the floor
isn't what brought
his parents
to the the brink of
forgetfulness,
it was his success,
translated into their coin;

Now UngezieFer -
family suppressed disgust,
exercised patience, a little,
yet thought him
the root of trouble;

Shedding his
human background
opened before him
the unknown
nourishment craved: Father.

The rage
brought a melancholy silence,
a vacant and peaceful meditation,
the last faint flicker of breath
from the unfortunate son.


*UngezieFer is German for vermin, or bug.




Stan Dunn is better known for his work in abstract experimental art for which he holds signature membership in the International Society of Experimental Artists. His poetry and art play off of each other, challenging the reader to reflect on subjects that are often less than pleasant.






Michael P. Workman Lois Marie Harrod Joel Fry Steve Dalachinsky Aldo Tambellini Charles Frederickson Stan Dunn