February, and there are wasps at the faucet, flying in droves at dusk to collect water to cool their nests.
-- The Speaker (Lines 1–3)

Importance: The opening lines introduce the setting and context of the narrative given in the poem. Since the poet does not specify exactly where the poem takes place, clues such as the wasps' need to "cool" their nests in February insinuates that the setting is tropical. The repetition of the "f" and "d" sounds in these lines contributes to the poem's rhythm.

They must carry each drop between their legs without getting their wings wet.
-- The Speaker (Lines 4–6)

Importance: Here, the speaker considers the wasps' burden. Their delicate task of carrying water without wetting their wings is done for the sake of the colony. They undertake individual risk to heighten their collective chance of survival.

It is a dance we do—me with a broom, thrusting it between them as though it were a pitchfork...
-- The Speaker (Lines 6–8)