The trouble with crying over an onion is that once the chopping gets you started and the tears begin to well up, the next thing you know you just can't stop.
This quote from Laura Esquivel's "Like Water for Chocolate" captures the uncontrollable nature of emotions, likening it to the act of chopping an onion that inevitably leads to tears. Just as cutting onions triggers an overwhelming response, certain situations can evoke strong feelings that can spiral beyond our initial intent. The quote reflects on how a simple action can unleash a flood of emotions, making it difficult to regain composure once the tears start flowing.
In the context of the story, this metaphor emphasizes the connection between food, emotion, and memory. The protagonist’s experiences in the kitchen evoke deep feelings, and cooking becomes a means of expressing her inner turmoil. This highlights how everyday activities can serve as outlets for emotional release, illustrating the beauty and messiness of human experience when faced with sorrow and nostalgia.