Lines Written In The Fannie Farmer Cookbook by Elizabeth Bishop

You won't become a gourmet* cook 
By studying our Fannie's book-- 
Her thoughts on Food & Keeping House 
Are scarcely those of Lévi-Strauss. 
Nevertheless, you'll find, Frank dear, 
The basic elements** are here. 
And if a problem should arise: 
The Soufflé fall before your eyes, 
Or strange things happen to the Rice 
--You know I love to give advice. 

Elizabeth
Christmas, 1971 


* Forbidden word 
** Forbidden phrase 


P.S. Fannie should not be underrated; 
She has become sophisticated. 
She's picked up many gourmet* tricks 
Since the edition of '96.