Summer is a capricious season, starting with warm sunshine and gentle breezes in early summer, intensifying to scorching heat, treacher‐ ous thunderstorms, and destructive typhoons at its peak, before easing into a soothing transition towards autumn. With its vibrant colors and abundant fruits, summer is a visual feast.
The flavors of summer are as varied as the weather. In early summer, under brilliant sun‐ shine, lazy afternoons are perfect for carefree strawberry picking in the fields. Their bright red color is so enticing that one can hardly resist tak‐ ing a bite. By midsummer, in southern China and on campuses alike, ripe mangoes beckon with their golden hue, freshly picked from the tree. Watermelon dominates the height of sum‐ mer, its crimson flesh bursting with juice, offer‐ ing a refreshing respite from the heat. As sum‐ mer progresses, pears and apples ripen, adding to the seasonal bounty.
Summer is synonymous with the smoky aroma of barbecues. The sizzle of grilled meats and vegetables forms a symphony of flavors, their enticing aroma lingering in the air. Steaks, chops, and drumsticks hiss and pop on the grill, while corns, mushrooms, or peppers, seasoned with salt and spices, offer a delightful blend of sweetness and savory goodness.
The taste of summer also shines through in chilled treats that refresh and cool us down. A scoop of vanilla ice cream provides instant relief as it melts on our tongues. Tangy lemonade quenches thirst with a zesty sensation, and a cold soda offers a refreshing fizz on hot summer days.
Beyond these distinct flavors, summer evokes a unique blend of memories and emo‐ tions. It's the laughter of children playing on lawns with sprinkling systems or the soothing sound of waves gently lapping at the shore. There's a sense of enthusiasm and freedom as we embrace longer days and leisurely evenings.
As summer unfolds, let's savor the essence of this enchanting season. Let's indulge in its fla‐ vors and create memories that will linger long after the season fades. May the taste of summer bring forth joy, nostalgia, and a gentle reminder to embrace all the sweetness that life has to of‐ fer.