KENSINGTON MARKET
We took visitors to down town Toronto,
Kensington Market they saw
Streets full of bargains, little stores full
of cheap goods galore,
The sun shone and a gentle breeze
blew a picture of delight,
With a few sordid places that also
were there in sight.
Going along we saw a sign for
nippy old Cheddar cheese,
And as we opened the door the
smell made you sneeze.
Offers to taste from a hand
with no face seen,
Names of cheeses I did not know
from far away they did glean.
“Something with a bite” I said
“I would like to taste,”
The accented French voice spoke
a name pronounced in haste,
It was strong and tasty with
a bite like a mad dog,
I asked for a little piece but
she offered me the whole hog,
Then she cut a big chunk off with
a “Five dollars is the cost.”
I am sure that she at that price
had some profit lost.
Just a nibble is all you need
of this cheese with a strong taste,
And having another bite of it
I wonder if I bought in haste
This cheese with a bite, taste and smell
will put hair on your chest,
Well, if that happens I will just
wear a pretty vest.
I hope I could find that store when
going to Kensington Market once more,
But next time I’ll get a cheese that does
not meet you at the fridge door.

(Millicent) Ann Margetson September 19, 2003