Words have their own rhythm which we abandon when we focus too much on grammar and what is technically correct. The colons in this stanza are not used correctly; however, they exist to contrast and enhance the message that for many life is a race to the next point often without recognition of where they were. A colon draws a direct relationship between two points; here the colon shows that without existing for now there is no relationship with then.
Like ants they scurry across the face of the planet:
Wake up: eat.
Eat: commute to work.
Work: take a lunch.
Lunch: return to work.
Work: commute to home.
Home: eat.
Eat: Sleep
Repeat
-EJB
