By Every Family’s Got One Guest Poet — Marie A. Mennuto-Rovello
The oak rocker swayed to a
slow, but steady rhythm
controlled by my grandfather’s
feet.
It creaked over the
gaudy, green linoleum floor.
I was young, maybe five,
sitting on his knee as
he patiently taught me
how to count in Italian.
Uno, due, tre, quattro,
cinque and Grandma
waiting to fill my belly
with apricot nectar and
chocolate wafers.
Marie’s poem LOVED IN THE TRANSLATION was previously published on PoetsOnline.org.
Marie A. Mennuto-Rovello works full time at staying alive and keeping in touch. Her poetry is often a reflection of childhood memories but can be triggered by almost anything. In her previous life, she was an active participant of the poetry community in Bergen County, N.J., something she misses very much.
Aw, absolutely loved Marie’s poem and made me smile thinking about my own Italian grandfather and years past <3
Awwww such sweet memories. Smiling along with you, Janine. xxx
This is such a lovely example of how a poem can tell our stories so evocatively! Thank you for sharing.
Yes, that’s it exactly Dawn!
Brings back such fond memories! Love this!
I’m so glad, Camille. Marie’s writing stirs up happy memories of both of my grandfathers.