First of all, I am delighted that you are a vegetarian at heart. I don't like strict vegetarians all that much, because I too am almost a vegetarian, and see nothing particularly likable about it, just something natural, and those who are good vegetarians in their hearts, but, for reasons of health, from indifference, or simply because they underrate food as such, eat meat or whatever happens to be on the table, casually, with their left hand, so to speak, these are the ones I like.
In this quote from Franz Kafka's "Letters to Felice," the author expresses his appreciation for individuals who identify as vegetarians at heart. He indicates a preference for those who embrace a flexible attitude toward meat consumption, rather than strict vegetarians who rigidly adhere to dietary rules. Kafka finds a naturalness in his own semi-vegetarianism and suggests that personal health choices, indifference, or a lack of culinary appreciation can lead to eating meat in a more casual manner.
Kafka's perspective highlights the complexity of dietary choices and suggests that authenticity in one's eating habits is more important than strict adherence to vegetarianism. He admires those who, despite consuming meat, remain connected to the essence of vegetarianism through their mindset and values. This viewpoint emphasizes the idea that food choices can reflect an individual's attitude toward life and nourishment rather than just a set of dietary regulations.
