It’s commonplace for people to complain about holiday foods like fruitcake and egg nog, but what about candy canes? Does anyone really love candy canes? I’m munching on a mini one right now, and although it’s not offensive in any way -- and perhaps even freshening my coffee-stink breath -- I’m not exactly devouring it. It’s not like, “Mmmm … I could eat the whole box of these.”
The candy cane, although arguably tasty, is unarguably traditional. It’s believed to have been invented in the 1400s, despite an urban legend floating around that claims the candy cane’s “J shape” symbolizes Jesus, with the white symbolizing the virgin birth and the red representing the crucifixion. However, most historical info says the candy cane predates Christianity, and if anything, was a Pagan tradition.
History and religion aside, candy canes aren’t a coveted treat, yet they show up on store shelves and inside stockings year after year. They’re down right ubiquitous during the holidays, but no one ever says they love ‘em or hate ‘em. Candy canes are, quite possibly, the most mediocre aspect of Christmas.
Sure, they make cute ornaments, but for the most part, they hang around for a while, only to get tossed out in early spring. I mean, what can you do with a leftover candy cane? Don’t answer that.
Molly Snyder started writing and publishing her work at the age 10, when her community newspaper printed her poem, "The Unicorn.” Since then, she's expanded beyond the subject of mythical creatures and written in many different mediums but, nearest and dearest to her heart, thousands of articles for OnMilwaukee.
Molly is a regular contributor to FOX6 News and numerous radio stations as well as the co-host of "Dandelions: A Podcast For Women.” She's received five Milwaukee Press Club Awards, served as the Pfister Narrator and is the Wisconsin State Fair’s Celebrity Cream Puff Eating Champion of 2019.
