Recent research has shown certain species of squid are able to edit their RNA (their genetic material) on the go. This is remarkable and understanding how they do it will help doctors to fight diseases in human animals too.

This research inspired me to respond through poetry: specifically through a form called a VILLANELLE. Why? Because the villanelle has a lovely structure which passes information along in repeated lines. See if you can spot the lines which are repeated and then try writing your own.

 
When adapting to the life I would restart
I’d be much more forgiving
If I could re-encode my heart.

I’d be a bit more wise than smart
And take the time to listen,
When adapting to the life I would restart.

I’d put you first and split apart
The hopes for me and those for you
If I could re-encode my heart.

I’d make it clear in all my art
That being here means being kind
When adapting to the life I would restart.

Bear with me and don’t depart
I’m sequencing the dreams I’d kept
If I could re-encode my heart.

I’ll make the future my new start
And do the things I wish I’d done
When adapting to the life I would restart
If I could re-encode my heart. 

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