In "Dragonfly in Amber" by Diana Gabaldon, the author reflects on the lengths to which people might go when it comes to food, emphasizing how individuals can adapt to and tolerate unappealing options if they are presented appealingly. This notion captures a broader commentary on the human experience and willingness to accept unpleasantness for the right circumstances.
The phrase suggests that people are often more concerned with presentation and societal norms than the intrinsic quality of what they consume. It serves as a metaphor for how desires and needs can lead to accepting less favorable situations if they come adorned with the right appeal or justification, revealing insights about human behavior and values.