Possum Stew Poem by Robert Eckstein

Zeke got his big kettle down to make some possum stew
And if you read his recipe, you'll know just what to do.
You need some good fat possums, at least two or maybe three.
Your faithful hound will find them in a persimmon tree.

Catch them, but don't shoot them, and feed them bread and gin.
They'll soon be calm and happy, and get flavored from within.
The day before you cook them, shoot them from behind.
They'll be too drunk to notice, and surely will not mind.

You next must take their outsides off and take their insides out.
It isn't a real pleasant task, of this there is no doubt.
Next, you have to cut them up and fry them in some lard.
Meanwhile, peel potatoes and get some greens in from the yard.

When the possum's halfway done, put them in the pot,
Add potatoes and chopped onions and some gin (but not a lot) .
Keep the fire pretty low and let them cook a while
Then add some chopped tomatoes. The scent will make you smile.

Cook the greens up with some bacon, throw some okra in the stew,
Make corn bread in a skillet and your work is almost through.
Holler for your family, your friends, and nearby kin,
Set supper on the table and the feasting can begin.