Here are some key themes that emerge from the poem:
* The contrast between life and death: Nash highlights the stark difference between living creatures and their fossilized remains, emphasizing the permanence of the fossilized form against the fleeting nature of life.
* The unexpected nature of fossilization: The poem playfully suggests that anything can become a fossil, from a dinosaur to a "small boy who was lost in the woods."
* Humorous perspective on scientific concepts: Nash uses wit and humor to make the process of fossilization accessible and relatable, poking fun at the sometimes serious and complex scientific explanations.
* The importance of perspective: The poem encourages readers to look at the world with a sense of wonder and humor, recognizing the unexpected and often comical aspects of life and its history.
Ultimately, "Fossils" is a lighthearted poem that celebrates the absurdity of the natural world and the surprising remnants it can leave behind.