As we are so wonderfully done with each other
We can walk into our separate sleep
On floors of music where the milkwhite cloak of childhood lies
O my lady, my fairest dear, my sweetest, loveliest one
Your lips have splashed my dull house with the speech of flowers
My hands are hallowed where they touched over your
soft curving.
It is good to be weary from that brilliant work
It is being God to feel your breathing under me
A waterglass on the bureau fills with morning . . .
Don’t let anyone in to wake us.
The Food of Love. Aphrodite’s Feast. Are there such things as aphrodisiacs? How do they work? How can I use them? Such questions are the dark root of the blending of food, drink and romance. But the answers may not be quite what you expect.
Still trying to figure out where to begin. Let’s start off by mixing up a drink. Always a good beginning. I’d say it’s about the right time of year for something cozy, no?
There is so much to do! So much to talk with you about! Perhaps the first topic should be the place itself: because I have only just opened the gate, you as an early visitor are seeing it before its full glory. Most of the categories (“rooms”) are yet empty. Allow me to explain what’s happening by way of a tour:
Welcome to Aphrodisia! I am Giovanni, and this is my garden and villa. You saw the inscription on the gate on the way in, yes? It was on the gate of Epicurus’ garden and matched so well I just had to duplicate it. Now, Epicurus had some interesting things to say, but in this garden our approach to life is quite different. I am not an epicurean, but a sybarite. He taught metaphysics and philosophy, and served water and barley-meal. Here, we discuss poetry and cookery, sex and sensation, and enjoy the most lush and delicious food and drink. And the overlap of all these topics is to be found in its name: Aphrodisia.
Clearly, it is not for everyone. If it is not for you, go in peace, and may you find happiness in your path! If, on the other hand, you would explore the flavors and entertainments that wait in the fragrant shadows of my villa, I bid you welcome.
Stranger, here you will do well to tarry; here our highest good is pleasure.