the art of eating figs Figs The proper way to eat a fig, in society, Is to split in four, holding it by the stump, And open it, so that it is a glittering, rosy, moist, honied heavy-petalled four-petalled flower. And then you throw away the skin Which is just like a four-sepalled calyx, After you have taken off the blossom with your lips. But the vulgar way Is just to put your mouth to the crack, and take out the flesh in one bite. Every fruit has its secret. D.H. Lawrence The Fig Under the green leaf hangs a little pouch Shaped like a gourd, purple and leathery. It fits the palm, it magnetizes touch What flesh designed as fruit can this fruit be? The plump skin gives a little at the seam. Now bite it deep for better or worse! Oh multitude of stars, pale green and crimson— And you have dared to eat a universe! May Sarton back