I Am a Special Concoction

An Icy cold, sweet treat. Often starts with vanilla, cookie cream, Chocolate, java, mint, but things cold down fast. Sprinkles, brightly colored warm gummy candies, and almonds Replace the cherry on the top we used to think was so all that. Back in the day, I used to visit my sister when she worked in a place that Sold this delicacy. Polly’s, red and white striped awning, Red counter tops, It was always packed on Memorial Day, and the 4th of July. During the winter Polly’s was closed, saddening me, especially in the spring when it could have been open a little sooner, to , delight those of us who loved her offerings so. My special concoction was a Carolyn’s special, which is a butter pecan with hot fudge sundae. Oh, my goodness, I remember this diabolically great taste, as if I had eaten one a few minutes ago. When in actuality, it was over fifty years ago. I’m salivating right now thinking about that sweet small town, America, lovely icy taste. I don’t think I’ve had that taste in fifty years. Who could forget it though? Or orange or pink Sherbet, that tiny, shocking first bite? Remember those Instant headaches before we knew better? My teeth shudder at the shaking brain syndrome caused by letting this darling hit my palate too fast, without warning. Two scoops? Are you kidding? Were y ou not listening? I can’t stop shuddering, and I’m eating a sample! I had a petite affordable sugar cone, whereas you chose the ostentaciously diamond-shaped waffle. Why not make it a sundae? Or a concrete? No pun intended. The baby is pulling on The five year old’s arm now, and the five is wailing. Every eye in the shop is now watching as the Large pink freezing wad with the blue and green sprinkles falls the four feet to the black and white linoleum floor and there are many eyes here beca- use it’s 8:30, and this place closes in twenty-seven minutes. As the stickiness hits, making a giant, resounding plop the place is instantly and miracul- ously tomb-quiet. Then everyone springs into action. Everyone wants to fix this, Seven custom- ers, a grandma and an employee with a gray mop and a stack of dingy blue and white teatowels runs over and a new me is handed to the sobbing five. Entered: Concrete Poetry Contest Sponsor: Maureen McGreavy 8/26/18