Ode to a Japanese Meal
by Paul Berkson

Udon, you are so warm,
and also satisfying.
Even on hot days you are so good.
Swallowing warm broth,
like the sun,
on a June day.
Slurping slimy smooth succulent noddles,
splattering my face with broth like
a rain shower.

Tamago sushi, you are a work of art.
Vinegar soaked mounds of white rice,
topped with golden rectangles of cooked egg,
wrapped by a blanket of seaweed.

Mochi, you are frozen delights.
Like a pillow,
you are so soft.
Soft ice cream,
wrapped in a cloud of marshmallow,
a tasty treat for the finale.