[Given to Frank Bidart] <br /> <br /> <br />You won't become a gourmet* cook <br />By studying our Fannie's book-- <br />Her thoughts on Food & Keeping House <br />Are scarcely those of Lévi-Strauss. <br />Nevertheless, you'll find, Frank dear, <br />The basic elements** are here. <br />And if a problem should arise: <br />The Soufflé fall before your eyes, <br />Or strange things happen to the Rice <br />--You know I love to give advice. <br /> <br /> Elizabeth <br /> Christmas, 1971 <br /> <br /> <br />* Forbidden word <br />** Forbidden phrase <br /> <br /> <br />P.S. Fannie should not be underrated; <br />She has become sophisticated. <br />She's picked up many gourmet* tricks <br />Since the edition of '96.<br /><br />Elizabeth Bishop<br /><br />http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/lines-written-in-the-fannie-farmer-cookbook/
