Poached Ginger Pears

In Chinese culture, pears are a traditional symbol of longevity and fidelity. Moreover, their appeal extends beyond the grave, to the dead who cannot forget the pleasure they brought. Thus, I was told as a child never to bring home pears on the fifteenth day of the seventh month, for at that time ghosts were roaming the earth seeking pears, among other things. So, on that day the pears might contain ghosts who would bring bad luck into the house. It was quite believable to me at the time.</