Literature by Women of Color Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Literature by Women of Color - Essay Example In essence, food imagery is not only about material substance per se but also substantial materials or elements that refine and define a particular literary work. By and large, food is central to the narrative of the three texts. This paper touches the vibrant role that food serves in these literary pieces. It also explores food as a symbol and a mediator. The role of food significantly contributes to the theme of the piece and other elements characterized in literature. First, the image of food substantially helps visualized the narrative of the story. In â€Å"A Temporary Matter,† for instance, the almost empty pantry -- where food items are stock -- suggests the emptiness and absence of comfort needed for family who just lost a child. The failure to fill-up foodstuffs into the pantry, which used to be constantly filled-up and refilled, dramatically implies the failure to fill-up the sunken emotions between the husband and the wife, namely, Shoba and Shukumar. Second, food imagery vividly shows the character’s inner mind and heart. In â€Å"When Mr. Pirzada Came to Dine,† for example, the confections that the main character brings to the host’s house strongly suggest his fatherly love of, and probably his missing of the, children. With the absence of his daughters, Mr. Pirzada tries to connect to his girls through the candies and cakes he gives to little Lilia. Foodstuffs permit the character to care and hope for the lives and safety of his family back home. Third, food in literature reveals the cultural upbringing and background of the characters in the piece. The foodstuffs apparent in Lilia’s home, which the characters share and eat, are expressions of shared culture and tradition. For instance, the chewing of fennel seeds after meal, the avoidance of drinking alcohol, among other things, are vital signs of inherited heritage of food etiquette from generation to generation. The invocation of the food names and