Organic
I spotted it before he spoke, in one corner:
There’s a basil plant this time. Put it on a saucer, in water;
A kitchen window ledge will do: three weeks’ time it ’ll be up here:
His hand hovering above the plant, and three weeks of air.
Then, noting my unease, he began to outline
A recipe or two using basil. Did I eat cheese? Sometimes.
I half-nodded, half-listened, tossed a glance upward towards the clock.
Thanks. There’s some bread ordered. Oh, and I’ll pay for my next box;
Which I picked up the same time the following week
Though from another chap, for apparently, on the way to work
The day before, he had died. This sowed the usual foolish surprise, The usual turning and hoeing of words.
The plant thrives,
Despite the fronds which are missing; each day succeeds
As a source of delight. I slice bread, then pick and chop two leaves. Crush garlic with a pinch of salt and the pungent whiff of sadness, Mix these up with olive oil and pour them on my salad.
Page(s) 59
magazine list
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