Horehound in Moonshine

Horehound in Moonshine

 

Freddie had a cough so he whittled

horehound candy into the new run

All the liquor out of St.Paul was smooth,

clear with strength & intention

Freddie bought it from a lawyer,

that took it from an old man,

that paid all his fees in shine

Bucky drank Ten High & Buddy

drank only beer, because he was diabetic

Freddie said it struck like a hammer

but went down soft, and it was the

only thing that worked on his cough

I guess it was true because he slept

a long time in silence where he sat,

his hand on the jar, and his friends in formation,

as if suspended in animation, each

in a position

of conversation,

and peaceful,

like snowmen

hardened into a long grin.

 

 

Reviews

[C.T. Bailey]

Most folks just don't understand our reverence for corn liquor. This poem is a revealing glimpse of Appalacian culture. My family has roots in Cocke Co....notorious moonshiners they are. Wow...this one is going into my library. I don't understand how I haven't found you on this site before. Wonderful writing...
Todd

[Emily B]

This tells a nice story. A sliver of country life. Glimpses into the 'other'.