Food and war, war and food: how to listen to food voice in war memoirs

Abstract

ABSTRACT Both food and war are inherently political and provide insights into the priorities and character of a society. However, they are often viewed in opposition to each other (domestic priorities versus foreign policy) or the weaponized nature of both. While these perspectives mention the impact had on people, they fail to acknowledge the person living in the moment. There is a strong tradition of using food and war in memoir, but rarely do the paths cross. Memoir, while a vehicle for person’s reflections on the meaning of their life experiences, also places those lessons within broader society via a mechanism that readers can more easily relate to. Admittedly, food memoirs are generally viewed as more accessible than war memoirs, and as such there is something can learned from that. Using a ubiquitous element, such as food, to broach complicated and usually foreign experiences is a more accessible entry point. Moreover, by paying attention to how food is discussed and utilized in war memoirs, the food voice, the audience can learn more about the author, the conflict, and the society involved.