Betsy Robin Schwartz

how long has it been since

memory's route was tasted

a thick unwrapped round of

striped red and white candy

had barely touched my tongue

when the peppermint

opened lost moment sinuses

I reach into the cut crystal bowl

while Tante Hanna produces the perogies

Uncle Herman with half an immigrant smile

and weighted eyelids still sits on the

overstuffed sofa