I know. What in the world am I doing with a visual story such as this. Well, it’s my continued exploration of the human condition. Face it. Some of the things we humans do—are at times quirky. Though the need to eat is not quirky, the mechanical/physical process of eating is… “awkward.”
I don’t know when eating on the run became a societal norm. Maybe it began with the evolution of what’s considered a nuclear family sitting at a table for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Perhaps, it transitioned into this multitasking mindset we’ve all grown accustomed to in today’s world. Most likely, it’s been part of human nature going back to the beginning our existence.
Have you ever watched people as they eat? Is it too intimate to do so?
Of course, it’s something we all must do to sustain our lives. Most times, it’s actually messy—even when sitting at a table. How often have you hovered over your plate or bowl to catch the food that drops?
Demonstrating how we unconsciously understand that eating is messy, and always compensating for it.
Weather doesn’t affect when or where PDE takes place. From the colds of Winter, but mainly in Summer when we’re all outdoors—at the beach, sporting events, concerts, commuting, shopping, sightseeing, etc.
There is a certain romanticism in being fed by someone. Though it’s sharing, I can’t help but make the inference to babies being fed by their parent. With that in mind, not only is it PDE, it’s a PDA with someone else’s mouth (without the kissing).
Where or when PDE happens is not a concern for many. At a food festival is seemingly appropriate. Or, quenching a thirst in the middle of a busy sidewalk. But, are the circumstances conducive? Multitasking urgency take priority.
Newborns and toddlers need “spoon-feeding” since they’re not able to eat on their own—so watching them is a safety concern. Not to mention, they are innocently adorable when chewing, and swallowing. They’re growing while learning to eat.
I recall quite a few years back riding the subway when the smell of street food filled the subway car. The smell was great! A couple of people traveling together boarded and began eating their entrees—not finger foods. Other passengers visibly scoffed at them eating—also waving their hands in front of their noses showing they didn’t enjoy the smell. That’s what started this exploration into public displays of eating.
I believe there is a marked difference when eating snacks on the run—like potato chip snacks, candy bars, finger foods, small drinks—but not full entrees! I admit my bias is showing here. Primarily because of the food etiquette lessons I was taught by my parents, such as to “chew with your mouth closed.” What are your thoughts? Leave a comment,
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As always, I appreciate you reading the newsletter through.
Til next time…
Kenneth