David Appelbaum is able to create an insider language about fire by thoroughly describing how the owner of the house must tend to the fire as part of the obligations. For example, on page 67 of The Kitchen Fire, the author clearly states, “A householder tends the kitchen fire and is tended by it. This is taming a great power. In becoming master of it, one is forever subservient. A great animal trainer induces the mighty lion and the bear to perform acts of delight by never neglecting their proper natures.” For this particular subculture, the fire itself appears to be a symbol of superiority and control, as compared to other cultures where fire might display a symbol of divinity. …show more content…
In this reading, Appelbaum is able to make the distinct connection between food and philosophers. On page 66 of The Kitchen Fire, he clearly states, “Plato notices that a mouth like ours has a dual function: outpouring speech expresses our divine origin, and taking in food, our vulgar, lowly one.” Another example of how Appelbaum uses words as cultural artifacts can use words as cultural artifacts is evident on page 63. While discussing the element of fire itself, Appelbaum connects this word with sagas of ancient times, “In ancient legends, the earth-power Prometheus stole fire from the gods and presented the theft to humans. (Who hasn’t been a little Prometheus, stealing matches from the drawer besides the stove?) His punishment was excessive since he head disturbed a somnolent …show more content…
In the legend of Prometheus, he stole the fire from the gods and presented the theft to the humans. As a result Prometheus’ punishment for stealing the fire was undetermined, yet cruel. I think it’s interesting to hear about the element of fire through an ancient legend. In addition, I’ve learnt that as a cook in this subculture, one must bear the responsibility of tending to a fire. On page 67 of The Kitchen Fire, “As a cook, one learns how to obey. The fire is to be tended. It is master; one serves it. The lesson leads to a distinction between need and pleasure, the necessary and the