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July already. I don’t know about you, but summer in the South means it’s too hot to even think about firing up the cook top or turning on the oven. We’d much rather be fanning ourselves on the patio or packing up for a family picnic. And no righteous picnic in the South is complete without a sweet wedge of ice-cold watermelon. So, today at the Café, we’re taking a break from our usual recipe and keeping it simple. Have a seat and pass the watermelon. The salt shaker’s right there in the middle of the table.
While you’re enjoying your watermelon, I have another treat in store for you. In honor of the mother-fruit of the South, I’ve invited Patricia Neely Dorsey, a poet from the great state of Mississippi to share a bit of verse from her book, Reflections of a Mississippi Magnolia – A Life in Poems.
If you want a glimpse of Southern life,
Come close and walk with me;
I’ll tell you all the simple things,
That you are sure to see.
You’ll see mockingbirds and bumblebees,
Magnolia blossoms and dogwood trees,
Caterpillars on the step,
Wooden porches cleanly swept;
Watermelons on the vine,
Strong majestic Georgia pines;
Rocking chairs and front yard swings,
Junebugs flying on a string;
Turnip greens and hot cornbread,
Coleslaw and barbecue;
Fried okra, fried corn, fried green tomatoes,
Fried pies and pickles too.
There’s ice cold tea that’s syrupy sweet,
And cool, green grass beneath your feet;
Catfish nipping in the lake,
And fresh young boys on the make.
You’ll see all these things
And much, much more,
In a way of life that I adore.
Copyright 2008 Patricia Neely-Dorsey
from Reflections of a Mississippi Magnolia-A Life In Poems
Aren’t there some yummy images in there? Patricia Neely Dorsey’s book of poetry is “a true celebration of the south and things southern.” Patricia tells us, “There are so many negative connotations associated with Mississippi and the south in general. In my book, using childhood memories, personal thoughts and dreams, I attempt to give a positive glimpse into the southern way of life. In my book I try to show that there is much is more to Mississippi and the south than all of the negatives usually portrayed. I invite readers to Meet Mississippi (and the south) Through Poetry, Prose and The Written Word.”
You can learn more about Patricia here or order a copy of her lovely poetry here.
Thank you so much, Patricia, for sharing with my readers.
Now, for all of you at the café, a couple of questions:
How do you eat your watermelon? Free-styling with the melon in both hands and juice dripping down your chin? Or on a plate with a fork? Salt or no salt?
Personally, I don’t think there’s a wrong way to eat watermelon. Enjoy a wedge today. And stay cool.