Sweet Celebrations
by Chloe Santosa, St Catherine’s School
Years 9 – 10 Written Poetry Finalist
strawberries picked, washed & wrapped
in sticky-sweet mochi
ringed scarlet around your mouth like Saturn’s rings
or perhaps dipped in melted sugar
alongside other fruits
grapes, autumn crisp
mandarin slices, perfectly orange to mimic
the lanterns illuminating the streets of
the Dotonbori market
sandwiched between two slices of *shokupan* bread
and airy cream
mosaic of delectability
a convenience store favourite
bright persimmon slices, sheer as stained glass
catching the pale early light
yuzu shaved ice piling like fresh winter powder
drenched in citrus syrup, tart and bright
fluffy soufflé pancakes quivering on a porcelain plate
dusted with snow-white sugar and berries
matcha ice cream melting into warm azuki beans
a bitter-sweet balance in a ceramic bowl
a street-lit parade of sugar and fruit
each bite a fleeting work of art
crafted to turn simple days into celebrations