Horwitz argues that after Swanson’s 1954 invention of the TV
dinner, the food culture began to take a drastic turn. Though not intentional,
the traditional communal gatherings three times a day became less and less
important as convenience became the modern trend and a top priority (44). Similarly
while evaluating astronauts, it was noticed how the American astronauts were
more inclined to wanting to eat alone while those individuals from other nations
valued the community of others while eating their meals (44-45). It seems as if we are
now more focused on simply supply our bodies with fuel instead of taking
additional time out of the day to converse with others around us.
Personally I can relate to another one of Horwitz
illustrations. As a college student, I’m often rushing between classes,
finishing homework, or participating in events off campus. Sometimes it’s
difficult to find time to eat, in addition to finding someone to eat with.
Because everyone has different schedules, during the middle of the day most
students grab a quick bite by themselves. Horwitz has noticed this herself in
her own classroom and opens the article telling of the multitasking eater "wolfing a messy sandwich" contrasting it with convenient options offered such as Campbell’s Soup at Hand (42).
Though we must appreciate the convenience given to us in the
American culture, we must not lose the ability to cherish a meal with others. There’s
nothing I value more than a meal at home with my family even though, especially
at school, I eat on the go. It’s impossible to replace a communal meal which is
only natural and seen since the beginning of time.
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