Stories of Food

Have you considered the connections between taste, smell and memory? When you think of a favourite food or dish, what sorts of memories come to mind? Is it a time or a place, or a special event? Do you remember the first time you tasted it?

Natale Rudland-Wood, in her article “Recipes for Life”mentions that it’s not only personal memories that are associated with foods. “History, culture, tradition, and collective memories are also passed down in our recipes, displayed in the way we prepare our food. And then of course there are camp fire traditions of story-telling, or chicken soup for the sick, or the evening feast after the daily fast for Ramadan, or the social festivity of Yum Cha and the meanings of Dim Sum”.

The realms of food are rich realms of meaning, story and connection.

At the same time, it seems vital to acknowledge that for many people, associations with food are not only positive. Many of us have experienced times of food deprivation or eating issues.

As we move into a time of lockdown, quarantine and social distancing we are aware of the importance of practising community and maintaining contact. The team at i4cc will be sharing some of their favourite meals and recipes and we would encourage you to do the same. What memories of food do you have? What will you be cooking over the next 21 days?

Reference:

Rudland-Woods, N. 2012. The International Journal of Narrative Therapy and Community Work. 2012, No.2 Recipes for life.

Available on www.dulwichcentre.com.au