The character in "Rabbit at Rest" enjoys a simple snack of dry-roasted cashews. This choice reflects not only his preferences but also hints at a deeper complexity in his experiences. The cashews have a distinctive flavor that brings a slight sensation of acidity, which he finds appealing, suggesting that he seeks out the edges of taste that may evoke certain feelings or memories.

This small moment with food serves as a metaphor for the character's life, illustrating how he engages with both pleasure and pain. The reference to the "tang of poison" indicates an attraction to the risky or the bittersweet, revealing his desire for intensity in even the smallest aspects of life. Through this detail, Updike deepens the reader's understanding of the character's psyche, emphasizing themes of longing and complexity in human experience.