Sandra Forte-Nickenig’s most recent poem to appear here was Deferred Dreams (August 2012).
Chanukah With the Maccabees
By Sandra Forte-Nickenig
Before the internet and
cholesterol, mama
was in charge.
cholesterol, mama
was in charge.
She’d light another candle
to celebrate the one night
vial of oil that burned for eight.
While latkes* sizzled
bearded Maccabees danced
arm in arm in the kitchen.
I invited them for brisket,
latkes and donuts
they were astonished
gas cost 60 shekels** a gallon
shook their heads in
amazement there was enough
oil in our pantry
to light a menorah at Masada
with at least 36 candles.
* latkes = potato pancakes
** Israeli shekels = about $0.15 today
Sandra, what a spirited description of the past, of tradition, mixed liberally with gentle, respectful humor. You paint a full-blown snapshot to be treasured through the years. Thank you for this perfect poem!
I love the old traditions that have carried families through eternity. But, most of all I love the “nice” memories families share.
This is poignantly personal and historical. I want to read it to my grandchildren and help them understand. I want to shake the rest of the world until everyone understands. Then I want to sit in peace around a table with friends and eat donuts!
The first three lines grabbed me and I went to the party! I danced with the Maccabees and ate latkes! I love the tone and the good feelings I had about Chanakah – and I learned about a holiday I hadn’t understood. Thanks for sharing, Sandy.
The first three lines of this wonderful poem grabbed me and the poem took off! I could smell the latkes and see the candles. And I wanted to join the Maccabees in their dance. Loved it, Sandy! Thanks for sharing this delight.