In her memoir "Tender at the Bone: Growing Up at the Table," Ruth Reichl explores the complex relationship between food and human connections. She reflects on how food can serve as a unifying force, bringing people together around shared meals and experiences, but also recognizes that it can create divisions based on preferences, cultures, and traditions.

Mac's influence helped Reichl understand this duality of food, prompting her to contemplate its role in her life and her relationships. Meals can foster intimacy and community, yet they also have the power to alienate those who may feel excluded or different in their tastes and culinary backgrounds. This nuanced perspective on food adds depth to her narrative, highlighting its significance beyond mere sustenance.