A Wise Man's Take on the Humble Popover

While recuperating in bed the last few weeks, and at first flat on my back, I didn't have much to do but play "Words with Friends" with  my girls and my mom, along with reading books.  One of the books, Issac's Storm, was one I have been meaning to read for a long time.  Great book.  My friend Mary brought over A Thousand Splendid Suns, which I am just finishing.  But there is one author who has been my favorite since childhood.

That would be Dr. Seuss. 

Dr. Seuss is not just for kids.  My girls checked out some of his books for me because I felt the need to read something joyful and fun.  Even though I have so many of my childhood originals, they are packed away in the basement, and my basement is a disaster at the moment,  and I decided not to try and find them.  My favorite was always Thidwick, the Big-Hearted Moose.  Dr. Seuss's words and characters may be delightful for children to read, but if you read between the lines, he has so much to say about the world. 

In 1977, this wise man gave the commencement address at nearby Lake Forest College.   Leave it to Dr. Seuss not to give a normal address.  In fact, his entire address was a short poem, but filled with the best advice for students going out into the world.  Since it also mentions food, it has become one of my favorite Dr. Seuss writings.  If you ever find yourself near Lake Forest, Illinois, check out the plaque of his poem which is displayed at the college's Middle Campus.  And take in his invaluable advice.

"My Uncle Terwilliger on the Art of Eating Popovers"

My Uncle ordered popovers
from the restaurant's bill of fare.
And, when they were served,
he regarded them
with a penetrating stare.
Then he spoke great words of wisdom
as he sat there on that chair:
"To eat these things,"
said my uncle,
"you must exercise great care.
You may swallow down what's solid
BUT
you must spit out the air!"

And
as you partake of the world's bill of fare,
that's darned good advice to follow.
Do a lot of spitting out the hot air.
And be careful what you swallow.