The heat was really fierce, Al rolled his window down.

''Twas a blistering day to be jammed in the traffic.

He hated this drive through the centre of town.

Al shouted and yelled, his language was graphic.


The auburn-haired fox in the car to his right

was clearly amused, for she giggled and blushed.

Al jumped at the chance to make gains from his plight,

he told himself "steady, no need to be rushed."


They chatted, he found out the girl's name was Joy.

Al asked if she'd like to go out for a meal.

He felt like he must be one real lucky boy

when Joy sweetly smiled and said "that's a deal."


The choice of a venue was easy for Al,

he liked spicy curries and maritime views.

The harbour front diner was called Taj Mahal

its Indian cooking won six star reviews.


Though Joy was uncertain she didn't object,

she'd never had curry, preferring plain food.

So while she did not know just what to expect

she kept her doubts hidden, no wish to be rude.


Al loved the menu, he said he would choose

a dish they could share, as an especial treat.

Sparkling white wine was just right for the booze,

Chicken Madras was the food they would eat.


With panache the waiter presented their meal,

A mound of moist meat was adorning the plate.

Joy wasn't confident how she should feel;

Al beamed and winked, saying, "wow, that looks great!"


Al told himself he was one clever fellow,

Joy gulped and hoped that she wouldn't be sick.

Why was the dish coloured vividly yellow?

"Because," said her beau, "it contains turmeric."


Al served them both, including some rice.

Joy closed her eyes and took a small peck.

Al burped and said, "gee, that really tastes nice,"

noticing Joy had turned red round the neck.


Joy's face turned purple, she struggled for breath.

She fell to the floor in a desperate state.

Turmeric proved to be Joy's spice of death.

A tragic conclusion to her date with fate.