Jasper County Democrat, Volume 7, Number 32, Rensselaer, Jasper County, 12 November 1904 — THE MUSIC OF THE POPPER. [ARTICLE]

THE MUSIC OF THE POPPER.

When the winter winds are blowing and the snow begins to fall; When the frost rime gathers thickly on the pane, When the apples have been gathered and the ‘ fodder ricks are tall, And the tumbleweeds are rolling down the lane; Then it is we gather gladly in' the family sitting room When the daylight dies and evening shadows drop; And our joyous laughter quickly drives away the twilight gloom. And the swelling, heated corn begins to pop. Hear the music of the popper, quickly swinging to and fro O'er the glowing coats beneath the flinty grain. Watch the snowy, toothsome dainty into richest blossoms blow To the rvthm of the popper’s glad refrain. And we laugh in joyous measure as the bursting grain rebounds With a snap against the shining popper's top: For no sweeter winter music on the evening air resounds Than the rattle when the corn begins to pop. High and higher grows the mountain in the dishpan by the stove, While tne syrup kettle ooils a merry pace. And our hungry eyes are resting on the future treasure trove. While a joy is beaming bright io every face. Now the popcorn balls are rounding with a skill that’s unsurpassed. And are tossed into the waiting hands—kerflop! Surely other season's pleasures without doubt are all outclassed When the swelling, heated corn begins to pop. Munching, crunching—O, the pleasure that old winter to us brings; Rosy apples, nuts and cider—joy galore. And the old home with the music of our happy laughter rings. Though outside old winter’s fiercest blizzard’s roar. Round the fireside then gathers all the family, every one Of the short day duties brought to sudden stop And the evening round of pleasure midst glad shouts is then begun. And the popcorn with a snap begins to pop.