Poetry on the Menu: A Literary Feast for National Poetry Month

by Jasmine September 21, 2024

written by Jasmine September 21, 2024

Poetry on the Menu: Celebrating National Poetry Month with Food-Inspired Verse

April is National Poetry Month, a time to celebrate the power and beauty of words. And what better way to do that than with food-inspired poetry?

Menupoems: A Culinary Delight

In New York City and other cities across the country, the literary food journal Alimentum is distributing “menupoems” to participating restaurants. These broadsides of food-related poems are designed to look like menus, offering a unique and delicious way to enjoy poetry.

Last year’s menu included a translation of Pablo Neruda’s “From The Great Tablecloth,” a poem by Doug Magee called “Praline To A Kiss,” and several by the “menupoem inventor,” Esther Cohen, including “Posthumous Hummus” and “He Only Wants.”

Classic Food Poems

In addition to the menupoems, there are many other classic poems that celebrate food. One of the most famous is William Carlos Williams’s “This is just to say,” which begins with the simple yet evocative lines:

I have eaten the plums that were in the icebox

Another classic food poem is Robert Burns’s “Address to a Haggis.” This poem raises Scotland’s humble national dish to heroic status, a proud symbol of Scottish identity. Burns writes:

Fair fa’ your honest, sonsie face, Great chieftain o’ the puddin-race! Aboon them a’ ye tak your place, Painch, tripe, or thairm: Weel are ye wordy o’ a grace As lang’s my arm

Food Poems by Contemporary Poets

Contemporary poets are also writing food-inspired poetry. Kim O’Donnel at A Mighty Appetite has published several tasty food poems on her blog, including two by the late Jane Kenyon, former New Hampshire poet laureate.

Food and Inspiration

Food can be a powerful source of inspiration for poets. It can evoke memories, emotions, and a sense of place. Whether it’s the simple pleasure of eating a ripe peach or the more complex emotions surrounding a family meal, food can inspire us to write poems that are both personal and universal.

Share Your Food Poems

Do you have a favorite food poem? Or has food ever moved you to pen verse? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

Jasmine

Jasmine's journey began with a camera in hand and a heart brimming with stories. The world, for her, wasn't just a collection of sights and sounds; it was a vibrant tapestry woven with intricate details, each one waiting to be captured and explored. This inherent curiosity naturally led her to the written word, where she discovered the power of language to weave narratives that resonated with the soul. Jasmine's articles in LifeScienceArt's life section are a testament to this synergy. Her words dance across the page, painting vivid pictures that transport readers to the heart of the experience. Whether it's the quiet contemplation sparked by a morning sunrise or the electrifying energy of a bustling city street, Jasmine has an uncanny ability to translate the essence of a moment into words that resonate. But Jasmine's talents extend far beyond the written word. With a keen eye for detail and a photographer's soul, she sees the world through a unique lens. Her photographs are more than just snapshots; they're windows into hidden emotions and unspoken narratives. A single image, captured with Jasmine's signature touch, can evoke a kaleidoscope of feelings, prompting introspection and igniting a sense of wonder in the viewer. The way she plays with light and shadow, or the way she finds beauty in the ordinary, speaks volumes about her artistic vision. It's clear that Jasmine doesn't just see the world; she feels it, deeply and passionately. This depth of feeling is evident in her writing as well. Jasmine's articles are infused with a raw honesty that connects with readers on a personal level. She doesn't shy away from exploring the complexities of life, the joys and sorrows, the triumphs and failures that we all experience. But even when tackling difficult topics, there's an underlying optimism in her words, a belief in the inherent resilience of the human spirit. Jasmine's writing encourages readers to embrace the full spectrum of life's experiences, to find beauty in the unexpected, and to navigate the challenges with courage and grace. One gets the sense that Jasmine's own life is a continuous exploration, a constant search for new experiences and perspectives. Whether it's venturing off the beaten path to capture a hidden gem through her lens or delving into the depths of human emotion through her writing, Jasmine thrives on the journey itself. This inherent sense of adventure is infectious, inspiring readers to embark on their own explorations, both internal and external. Jasmine's work isn't just about capturing moments; it's about igniting a spark of curiosity and a desire to live life to the fullest. Perhaps the most captivating aspect of Jasmine's work is the sense of intimacy it evokes. Reading her articles feels like having a conversation with a close friend, someone who understands the nuances of life and isn't afraid to share their vulnerabilities. This ability to connect with readers on a personal level is what makes Jasmine's writing so powerful and enduring. It's a testament to her own authenticity and her genuine desire to connect with others through the magic of words and images.