Nora Ephron, in her book "Heartburn," expresses her profound love for cooking as a source of comfort and certainty in an unpredictable world. After a demanding day, the act of creating a dish by melting butter, combining it with flour, and adding hot stock offers a sense of assurance. This simple process stands out as a reliable outcome amidst the chaos of life, providing a personal refuge where one can find solace in predictable results.

Ephron highlights the significance of those small, certain moments in life, especially for those who seek stability. Cooking becomes not just a routine but a deeply satisfying activity that contrasts with the complexities of daily challenges, similar to solving a crossword puzzle. Her words resonate as a reminder of how fundamental kitchen rituals can offer both tranquility and a connection to the reassuring aspects of life.