There are people who like pepper
and put pepper on their meals,
people who think it's better
to eat something they can feel
that tingles and that spikes up
on the tongue
and tonsils too
that sends a spicy shudder
as one masticates the food.
That clears the throat
and pricks the brow
with perspiration
'til somehow
one's eyes enlarge
and throat must screech
for any liquid
that's in reach!
Makes one say 'Dear!',
or 'Gosh!'
or 'Flip!'
when forkfuls pass
between their
lips
and put one hand up
to their chest
to steady themselves
for the rest.
People who like their pepper,
like the drama -
LOVE the rush
and when it's sprinkled over
say 'Don't stop, that's not enough!'
They grin with a
sadistic glee
to know that they'll
eat heartily,
a meal that burns
and makes them growl,
lean back in their chairs
with a scowl -
one eye half closed
and lips in pout
or gasp 'That's hot!'
for those in doubt...
but know this
peppered, spicy pain
is pleasure,
for them,
all the same
that sparks and explodes
their insides
and has them clear
their plate with pride!
That makes one fan
their flushed,
hot cheeks
and chuckle
slightly
like a freak
delirious
and wondering when
they'll have a peppered meal again.
Copyright Yafeu-Khamisi Rodway-Brown