Nothing Like Chippies To Me (Dedicated to the Memory of My Loving Mom Vera)
By: Carlton A. Armistad
1.
Fried green Banana slices, lightly salted and fried thin
To make sure every bite tastes right, and every bite a scrumptious win
We Jamaicans are very choosey, when it comes to snacks
What we like, is what We like and that is just that
2.
Chippies Banana Chips wasn't to everyone's taste
Which meant more Me and less for them, as I would not, nay could not let any go to waste
Goodness and health flowed from the green banana plant, top to bottom
Possessing spiritual healing properties to make what was dead, come back more powerful an strong
Jamaican children were never forced to snack healthy, fresh fruit and nice tings like Chippies we had a plenty
Little fingers clasped tight to mother's beautiful dress, as we stopped in National's Bakery Shop, some supplies to get.
3.
On a 4 tier metal shop rack, my eagle eyes located my favorite snack
6 packets, 7 packs; I didn't want to leave any on the rack
Bartered with my Mommy, who allowed me to have 10
I'd have to sweep the yard, and be on my best behavior if I wanted to come here again
Sneaking a bag from the Kitchen as I was heading off to bed
Led to me in my sleep, running up a hill so steep, from armed Banana Chips Men.
4.
To think that something so natural and cultural still to this day; makes my mouth water
Salted Banana Chips, served Ital, no dips, brings the smell of Home to a brotha
Mom washing my long curly black hair and ensuring the home-made aloe- vera treatment went every where
Nostalgia is a hell-of-a-path to walk, but nothing like Chippies brings the remanence of Home, Love & Family back
Like Chippies Banana Chips; my favorite childhood snack.
The End.
About the Creator
Andrew Little
Carlton A. Armistad is the pseudonym for Andrew R. Little. I prefer writing under this as it allows me to look at any body of work I complete separate to my personal day-to-existence, and safeguards my relationships and family.
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Comments (1)
Are these similar to plantain chips? Loved your poem!