Poem by Elizabeth Bishop

Lines Written in the Fannie Farmer Cookbook

You won’t become a gourmet cook 
By studying our Fannie’s book-- 
Her thoughts on Food & Keeping House 
Are scarcely those of L’evi-Strauss. 
Nevertheless, you’ll find, Frank dear, 
The basic elements are here. 
And if a problem should arise: 
The Souffl’e 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.

1. Crusoe in England
2. Large Bad Picture
3. To Be Written on the Mirror in Whitewash
4. Strayed Crab
5. The Burglar of Babylon

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