...; the chipped plates might have been disinterred from some kitchen midden near an inhabited lake; and the chops recalled times more ancient still. They brought forcibly to one's mind the night of ages when the primeval man, evolving the first rudiments of cookery from his dim consciousness, scorched lumps of flesh at a fire of sticks...
In Joseph Conrad's "Falk," the narrator reflects on remnants of past civilizations, symbolized by chipped plates possibly unearthed from old kitchen refuse near a lake. These artifacts evoke memories of ancient times, reminding one of the early human experiences with cooking. The imagery of these plates invokes a sense of nostalgia and connection to the essential act of sustenance.
The passage also emphasizes humanity's longstanding relationship with fire and cooking, which can be traced back to primitive man. The mention of "scorched lumps of flesh" illustrates the rudimentary beginnings of culinary practices, showcasing how far humanity has evolved from those initial experiences. Ultimately, Conrad's writing invites readers to ponder the continuity of human life and the deep-rooted traditions that connect us to our ancestors.