In the narrative of "My Year of Meats," the author, Ruth Ozeki, delves into the cultural practice of stockpiling resources, which Americans often refer to humorously. This action reflects a societal tendency to seek security through abundance, as people stock up to safeguard against potential scarcity. The lightheartedness in their laughter belies a deeper anxiety about the possibility of not having enough, emphasizing a common fear linked to economic fluctuations and resource availability.

Ozeki's exploration highlights the paradox of consumerism; while abundance is celebrated and sought after, it also carries with it the weight of fear regarding deprivation. The contrast between having too much and the looming threat of not having enough creates a complex relationship with consumption. This dynamic reveals how deeply ingrained notions of scarcity and excess shape human behavior and societal values, prompting reflection on the implications of our desires and the resources we take for granted.