In Richard Brautigan's book "The Abortion," the narrator expresses a nostalgic reflection on the act of looking at a menu, an experience that is often overlooked. Despite not being hungry, the narrator feels compelled to engage with the menu, highlighting its role as a silent companion. This interaction symbolizes a deeper connection to daily rituals and the subtleties of life, suggesting that menus can serve as a medium for communication and reflection.

The narrator's greeting to the menu suggests a personification of ordinary objects, emphasizing how mundane items can evoke emotions and memories. This scene encapsulates a theme of finding significance in everyday life, as the narrator acknowledges the long absence of this simple ritual. Overall, the work invites readers to appreciate the nuances of daily experiences and to recognize the beauty in small interactions.