i'm an exotic spice
you cannot just mix me in any fruit-bowl
or use me liven up a dead dish

listen.

i've been made to salsa with the red peppers
to sizzle with the onions
i'm not a scattering of freaking doughnut sprinkles
oh no
i melt with the honey that marinates your soul
the warmth of cayenne that leaves you craving more

so take that into account the next time you compare
pancakes to paella