Beauty Shop window, France

Cast Iron

Kathy Pon a formidable vessel, weighty, no-nonsense, like Nonna Bianca.

Sustains family through Depression’s darkest days. Renders epicurean dishes from a humble garden.

Elemental: onions & garlic, fresh basil sautéed in olive oil, primary tones of a culinary canvas. Aroma of love sizzles, penetrating every membrane of her household.

Upon this base she prepares victuals for pennies: Sizzling servings of zucchini frittata, parmesan polenta heaped in creamy gold, glorious home-grown tomatoes like red jewels puréed over pasta.

She radiates heat, sears a sense of obligation into each child. Family, then God. Reputation the only path to heaven.

Braises old and new countries’ ways, hardened by years, unbroken. A wizened utensil, essential to feeding this family.

Stews up solutions for every occasion: Job loss, fathers who never return, babies out of wedlock.

How a skillet so durable nourishes memory of her mettle.