A wonderful delicacy are mushies

Which must be picked very carefully

For so many of them are not cushy

As they've been treated quite badly



Some are sold long past their prime

And take on odd flavors not at all fine

Others are salty and have bad flavor

Because of shrink-wraps over and over



Look for them to be as firm as can be

And choose ones unwrapped and free

Laying around in open baskets and trays

These you will find are not at all frayed



And will hold up well in salads or sauteed

Providing good taste without the sharp edge

Which many of the packed ones do display

For they've been put out there just to test



Stay well away from these plastic-coated ones

And your food will shine and provide a nice hum

Look for stores which market mushrooms loose

And then you will enjoy the fare you then choose



- Tristram



Christopher W. Thomas

10:15am Mon. Feb. 23rd, 1998