Taste: A Book of Small Bites

Taste is a lyrical exploration of one of our five senses, examining how we ingest the world, know ourselves, and others through tasting. Jehanne Dubrow combines personal experience with analysis of various art forms to consider the science of taste and its metaphorical significance. The book is organized as a series of meze, small plates of intensely flavored discourse.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 152 pages
Publication date: 23 August 2022
Publisher: Columbia University Press

Taste, a captivating lyric meditation on one of our five senses, deserves our attention and appreciation, which we often overlook. This book is thoughtfully structured as a series of "small bites," inviting us to explore the intricate ways in which we ingest the world around us. Through the lens of tasting, Jehanne Dubrow delves into the profound aspects of self-discovery and understanding of others.

Dubrow's culinary journey takes us on a delightful exploration of the five distinct taste sensations: sweet, sour, salty, bitter, and umami. With a blend of personal anecdotes and insightful analysis of poetry, fiction, music, visual arts, religious and philosophical texts, she sheds light on the multifaceted nature of taste.

In her captivating essays, Dubrow skillfully weaves together her personal experiences with a deep understanding of these diverse artistic mediums. She delves into the science of taste, unraveling the mysteries behind the physical sensations that shape our culinary experiences. Taste, she argues, transcends its physical realm and becomes a metaphor for discernment, allowing us to perceive and appreciate the world in new and profound ways.

Rather than presenting a traditional linear dinner served in courses, Dubrow presents Taste as a meal composed of meze, small plates of intensely flavored discourse. Each bite offers a glimpse into the author's thoughts and reflections, creating a rich and immersive reading experience.

Through her lyrical prose and interdisciplinary approach, Jehanne Dubrow invites us to savor the complexities of taste and to appreciate its profound impact on our lives. Taste is a testament to the power of art and literature to enhance our understanding of the world and to inspire us to explore new dimensions of our sensory experiences.

Weight: 176g
Dimension: 129 x 197 x 17 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780231201759