Eau de Vie

An aperitif? A cocktail?
By all means! Bien sur! Merci.
That would be quite delightful.
In France, I see, it’s quite “a propos”.
“When in Rome!” That’s what I always say.

Goodness, it seems I’ve finished mine already.
You see, I have had a terribly hectic day.
A glass of wine is good for the bloodstream.
Haven’t you heard? Would I like another?
Well, I cannot refuse my host. Thank you.

My, isn’t the scenery here breathtaking?
Pardon moi? What did you say?
Ah! I shall respond in your language.
You see, good wine brings out my fluency.
Oh, you do not comprehend? Ooo la la!
Quel fromage! Or is it "c'est dommage"?

Un instant, s’il vous plait!
I understood what you inferred, and you are wrong.
Non! My name is not “Sharon Stone”, C’est SHAN-NON.
It’s Irish, like my ancestors; who must have been charming.
McDonalds? Sure, I eat there; I bet you do too.

Another drink? Please! Bring a bottle!
Yes, I lived in Los Angeles for many years.
That threatens you? Your village is so sweet, you know.
It’s true, my husband lived here before we met.
No, I am not Catholic; but that doesn’t make me pagan.

Oh! What’s this? Homemade liquor you light on fire?
Eau de Vie? Water of Life, you offer me now?
I am not used to your customs; your judgment I rely on.
If you say it’s quite all right, yes, I will partake.
Wow! What a “kick in the pants!” I mean, “merde”!

We are not so different.
I think my great-grandmother once removed was French.
Must be why I am not even tipsy after all your (hic) hospitality!
You know, my husband and I agree on this:
The perfect culture is somewhere between… oh;
let's just pour another!

Written June 2001