Dull, yellowing book pages,

broken binding, with a tale.
An eight-year journey unfolds;
from cover to cover, a story.
What tale might unfold within?

Darwin’s insights, reputation,
cradled in the book’s caress.
Dissecting and observing;
small creatures, four volumes.
What adventure lies within?

Gaze through the microscope,
and discover the truth.
A great mind’s understanding;
across the now aged pages.
What intellect is within?

Riddled with beauty, knowledge,
and deeper understanding.
Simple little barnacles,
or something extraordinary?
What do you think is within?