Lokum

(image credit)

From Byzantine to Ottoman Empire,

          The lokum may have emerged sweet

As a confectioner’s syrupy mire

          Of sugar, spices, nuts complete.

The Sultan, it is said, wished to delight

          His wives for nightly pleasures they

Are wont to give to him in touch and sight,

          Continuing this so they may. 

Each cube of lokum the confectioner

          Dusted with icing sugar, so

Each wife can hold it and place it on her

          Awaiting tongue where pleasures grow. 

A British traveler must have partaken

          Of such enjoyment that he shipped

Cargoes, so mates back home were not mistaken

          What sweets that had his own tongue gripped.   

Turkish Delight is what the Westerners

Called this invention of confectioners.

Lokum © Ron Villejo