Food and Multiculture: A Sensory Ethnography of East London

Alex Rhys-Taylor's book explores the sensory ethnography of East London, examining gentrification, class antagonism, new ethnicities, and globalization through the lens of its multicultural context. He demonstrates how the city's smells and food are integral to understanding its history and the reality of its urban present, combining micro histories of ingredients with narratives from individuals to provide a unique account of the evolution of taste and culture.

\n Format: Paperback / softback
\n Length: 192 pages
\n Publication date: 23 August 2018
\n Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd
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In his groundbreaking sensory ethnography, Alex Rhys-Taylor delves into the vibrant tapestry of East London, unraveling the intricate threads of gentrification, class antagonism, emerging ethnicities, and globalization. Embracing the multicultural milieu of London, one of the world's most cosmopolitan cities, Rhys-Taylor explores how the city's aromas and culinary traditions weave a rich narrative of socioeconomic transformation and cultural diversity. Through his lens, London emerges as a mosaic of historical echoes and contemporary realities, where the scents and flavors of its streets and markets become essential portals to understanding its past and present.

From the fiery chillies sold by street grocers, carrying the weight of centuries of cultural exchange, to the intricate cuisines of origin like jellied eels and the hybridized dishes like the chicken katsu wrap, sensory experiences take center stage in understanding the intricate cultural genealogies of the city and its social life. Each of the eight chapters in this book serves as a microhistory, delving into the stories behind ingredients such as fried chicken, bush-meat, and curry sauce. These narratives, woven from the voices of individuals, offer a unique and engaging account of the evolution of taste and culture across time and space.

What sets this work apart is its innovative methodology, which blends sensory analysis with personal narratives to create a holistic and immersive exploration of the city's culinary landscape. By intertwining microhistories of ingredients with larger social and cultural narratives, Rhys-Taylor offers a highly original contribution to the fields of sensory studies, food studies, urban studies, and cultural studies. This book invites readers to engage all their senses, savoring the flavors and aromas that shape the city's identity while gaining a deeper understanding of its complex and ever-evolving social tapestry.

\n Weight: 298g\n
Dimension: 234 x 155 x 17 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9781472581150\n \n