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Printed from https://writing.com/main/books/entry_id/928881-cranberry-salad
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by Rhyssa Author IconMail Icon
Rated: 18+ · Book · Contest Entry · #2081410
my entries for the Construct Cup
#928881 added February 13, 2018 at 10:49pm
Restrictions: None
cranberry salad
when my parents married,
they joined traditions—
but at our celebration’s heart
is cranberry salad.
too complicated for ordinary days,
but when we give thanks for family,
and feasts,
and every good thing,
we start here.

boil cranberries
until they pop and burst
and smell of harvest time
fills all rooms.
mash them through
a colander—leaving a red mass
of gezotts—skins and
less edible bits that
stain hands and clothes—
once my sisters and I
shaped them into animals
and trees—like play dough,
before Mama caught us
and threw it away.
mix with lemon jello
and crushed pineapple,
grapes and walnuts
and chill overnight.

no matter where we gather,
in Germany or California,
Tennessee or Alabama,
this dish holds a place of honor.
sisters and brothers,
nieces and nephews come
laughing and thankful
with empty stomachs—
dishing cranberry salad
onto their plates because it says
Thanksgiving.

line count: 38

Prompt

© Copyright 2018 Rhyssa (UN: sadilou at Writing.Com). All rights reserved.
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Printed from https://writing.com/main/books/entry_id/928881-cranberry-salad