October 06, 2022
How to Throw a Communist Party
~from Marilyn Monroe’s party menu notes, 1956
by Heidi Seaborn
Champagne? At least some kind of wine with dinner Buy—liquor—scotch—gin—vermouth—Hors d’oeuvres—caviar—Others? Is that Copeland on the turntable?—Marilyn are you cooking up a Communist plot?—Wanna Martini Comrade George?— & what can I get you dear Comrade Marsha? Here, have some nibbles! Maybe an olive or two? Care for a refresh? napkin? Celery hearts—scallions?—Radishes. Are the crudités Unsalted?— Izzy you look so devilish, your hair slicked back like Stalin & knocking back a Manhattan—Never mind!—Have you seen Forbidden Planet? Red flick alright & red monsters—Two roasts—red meat!—I dare say, prime ribs of beef—anyone heard about Chaplin darling?—turkey—the Times called Bridge a turke–Silly that!—Hedda will you make the dressing—large mixed green salad with endive hearts—avocado? The Hollywood Ten gan—(Also aspic)–in Mexico? Marilyn this is divine—vegetables—frozen peas or in Pod?—A drink to Art & Marilyn! Two perfect peas in a pod—Or Potatoes—& I hear Orson’s having an Affair—Hey dreamboat—more red wine? it’s French—fruit & ice cream for dessert—choc & vanilla Norman, Recite a poem pretty please!—have some Coffee & cookies & Danish pastry—Jessie you’re awfully quiet. I’ll Take a White Russian & later Birthday cake for Helene—let’s sing Happy Birthday & make a great big wish! You didn’t—Leave the dishes— & roll up the rugs! I’ve got Robeson’s new record. C’mon let’s dance!