Breakfast In Gurunathan Cafe (A Sonnet) Poem by Ramesh Iyengar

You that seateth café by Andal temple beside
Behind kerosene stove, upon stool bestride
Busy with thy wares, quick in spirit
One that dons a banian snow – white
Schooling thou hast none, lettered scarce
Yet schooled in catering, food-making arts
As dosas hot on plate spread, as lotus pad
Dawn lights the day, the town unfold
What art, subtle blessed skill thou possess
To churn out those gentle idlis
White as lily, soft jasmine, no crusts
Better than my better half’s breasts?
Piping coffee, crisp vada, sambar of onion
Tingling in taste, neat recipe fine.