Chiclets

On subway platforms, long ago,
Were 2 cent gum machines
And splurging on some Chiclets
Was just one of my routines.

I didn’t chew gum often
But I couldn’t quite resist
Those tiny boxes, 2 squares each,
Which now do not exist.

In peppermint or spearmint,
One pack yellow, one pack green,
Those little Chiclet pillows
Made your mouth feel fresh and clean.

Though candy stores had Chiclets
Sold in packets holding 10,
I wouldn’t waste my money 
And was only tempted when…

I had to take the subway
And the gum machine was full;
2 pennies in my pocket
Let me give in to the pull.
Copyright © | Year Posted 2020

Poem

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Adams Avatar
July 12, 2020 at 10:13 AM
I remember Chiclets. The furthest back I remember gum was a penny gumball machine at Hars Grocery in Wichita. I the gumball was spotted, we got 5 cents worth of candy. What a deal! Thanks for the memories Ilene! Well done. Pat
Wolf Avatar
July 11, 2020 at 10:52 PM
Ha, ha! Great reminisce. ~ Iry Sisted
Watt Avatar
July 11, 2020 at 7:00 PM
You have such a fabulous memory for nostalgia, ilene! I certainly remember those Chiclets vending machines outside every grocery store. You'd look at your mom with big puppy dog eyes as she putting her change back in her purse, and often get a couple pennies for chiclets! When's the last time a vending machine took pennies?
Hinshaw Avatar
July 11, 2020 at 6:33 PM
Delightful nostalgia, Ilene. Was one of my favorites when I was a "chewer" I'm not sure if they are available anymore - Bob
Cunningham Avatar
July 11, 2020 at 3:57 PM
Not familiar with the brand but had to give up chewing gum, it made my jaw ache lol. Tom
Pigeon Tart Avatar
July 11, 2020 at 3:22 PM
Chiclets... so many memories sparked! Enjoyed :))) From childhood Halloween bounty to traveling to Mexico and the precious children selling those little two piece packs saying "Chiclets Chiclets" with big little smiles. xomo
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