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Adelaide Shaw

Melodies

Italian folk songs played in the café. All the memories of my childhood. Weddings and fiestas, holiday and family meals. Always the songs on the radio, played by a band, or on a phonograph record. Aunt Bessie dancing with my mother. My sister and I twirling around, feet flying, hands clapping. The rhythm of those years, steady and strong. Even in bad times the joyous beat of family.

the arbor heavy—
Grandfather sings the praises
of his grapes