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Somerville resident Kirk Etherton writes: “I love Market Basket. The diversity of products and people is always a treat. The first time I went in, it was overwhelming … but not for long! This poem describes my ‘conversion’ that day, more than 10 years ago.”

Villanelle for Market Basket

Kirk Etherton

Hey! What kind of supermarket is this!?

It’s crowded, and I do not have all day.

Just look at all the items on my list!

There sure are lots of folks, but I’ll persist—

But wait…everything is moving fine. Okay!

Hey! What kind of supermarket is this!?

Oh, I’ll try some new things: why resist

The low prices on this fine display?

Now look at all the items on my list!

It’s funny how my mood has changed: my fist

Is now unclenched. Life is like a sweet sorbet!

Hey! What kind of supermarket is this!?

“More for your dollar” and less stress?

Well, yes: much less than I believed I’d pay.

Just look at all the items on my list!

That place I used to shop will not be missed.

I’m adding up the “plusses” here today.

Hey! What kind of supermarket this is!

Just look at all the items on my list.

— Kirk Etherton

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