The Language of Food

     If you have been to a Folklore Village event you know that many of our activities include food. Why? Because we believe not only in the sustenance and deliciousness of the meals (hooray Bonnie) but because we also like what happens around the dinner table (or snack table!). Community comes together when food is involved. It is bridge across people, place, time and tradition. Where you grew up, what your life is like, what activities you enjoy and other things do not matter. You are simply hungry and other people are hungry and that ties you together and gives you a reason to start talking. “Good food, huh?” “Yeah – did you try this?” “Would you help cut these vegetables?” “I brought that hotdish over there – it’s what I always make”… These conversations often break the ice and lead to greater, deeper discussions. Think of the laughter you’ve heard in your own kitchens (and the kitchen at Folklore Village!), the conversations, the revelations. I bet you are smiling as you think of not only the delicious food, but the great conversations and relationships you built with people.
     Food is such common ground that it is ingrained in our language in ways we often don’t even think about. Phrases such as “two peas in a pod,” “easy as pie,” and others are common. (I have to interject here though – easy as pie? I’ve tried making pie and I don’t think it’s easy!) Sayings like these are familiar across the United States. Other words for food are more regional and some even familial.  What food in your family do you have a special name for that stems from a funny family story or mispronunciation? Who do you think of when you use that name for it? These stories connect us to our families, our roots, each other.
     I would love to know more about the "language of food" in your life.  Please share your favorite memories surrounding food, your favorite food quotes, or your stories of how food brought you closer to another person! Simply hit “add new comment” below and type your story. Remember to include your name. I have to approve all the comments, so it will be a few days before it shows up. Thanks!