To give up the taste of sushi or roasted chicken is a loss that extends beyond giving up a pleasurable eating experience. Changing what we eat and letting tastes fade from memory create a kind of cultural loss, a forgetting. But perhaps this kind of forgetfulness is worth accepting -even worth cultivating {forgetting, too, can be cultivated}. To remember animals and my concern for their well-being, I may need to lose certain tastes and find other handles for the memories that they once helped me carry.
The author reflects on the emotional and cultural implications of changing one's diet, emphasizing that giving up specific foods like sushi or roasted chicken signifies more than just sacrificing flavor; it represents a deeper loss of cultural identity. These foods are tied to memories and experiences that shape who we are, making their absence feel significant. As tastes fade, the act of forgetting can symbolize a shift in values and priorities, particularly regarding our relationship with animals.
Foer suggests that embracing this forgetfulness can be beneficial, as it may encourage a more compassionate perspective toward animal welfare. To remember and advocate for the well-being of animals, one might need to sacrifice certain favored foods and adopt new experiences that align with their ethical concerns. This transformation necessitates finding new ways to create memories, ultimately enriching one’s cultural and moral landscape in the process.
