more cake

when the cake arrives
all eyes
go upon it.
it's a big cake.
long, thick, and rich
with icing and fruit.
layers
of thick yellow
beds. soft and moist
in the light.
the candles are lit
then blown out.
were wishes made?
pieces are cut
and handed out on plates.
the crude jokes
end.
the small talk,
the clutter of chatter
is hushed.
the room goes quiet
as forks move from
dish to mouth. at times
all it takes is
sugar and butter,
cream and flour
to make people stop talking
and be silent.
we should all eat more
cake.