Quick Take

In Serve It Forth , her first book, M. F. K. Fisher takes readers on an animated journey through culinary history, beginning with the honey-loving Greeks and the immoderate Romans. Fisher recalls a hunt for snails and truffles with one of the last adepts in that art and recounts how Catherine de Medici, lonely for home cooking, touched off a culinary revolution by bringing Italian chefs to France. Each essay makes clear the absolute firmness of Fisher's taste--contrarian and unique--and her skill at stirring memory and imagination into a potent brew.

Reader's Review

Book Review Summary: Serve It Forth (Art of Eating)

Introduction

In "Serve It Forth," M.F.K. Fisher takes readers on a culinary journey through history, exploring the art of eating from the honey-loving Greeks to the immoderate Romans. This book is a collection of essays that showcase Fisher's unique taste and her ability to stir memory and imagination into a potent brew. With its vivid descriptions and personal stories, "Serve It Forth" has captivated readers and left a lasting impression on those who have read it. In this article, we will delve into the book's author, M.F.K. Fisher, analyze readers' views, and summarize the reasons why this book is recommended.

About M.F.K. Fisher

Mary Frances Kennedy Fisher, known as M.F.K. Fisher, was a prolific writer who wrote more than 20 books during her lifetime. Her first book, "Serve It Forth," was published in 1937, and it dealt primarily with food, exploring various aspects such as preparation, natural history, culture, and philosophy. Fisher believed that eating well was one of the arts of life and often incorporated the art of living as a secondary theme in her writing. Her style and pacing are notable elements of her short stories and essays, which have made her a well-respected writer in the culinary world.

Analysis of Views

Engaging Storytelling: Readers rave about Fisher's ability to weave personal stories into the narrative, creating a sense of immersion that makes the book difficult to put down. Each chapter is described as a little hard candy of a story that begs savoring, but many readers end up crunching them all quickly.
Vivid Description: Fisher's descriptions of food and culinary experiences are widely praised for their vividness and sensory appeal. Her descriptions transport readers to different places and evoke a sense of hunger and desire for the food she describes.
Historical Context: Readers appreciate the historical context that Fisher provides in her essays, taking them on a journey through culinary history from ancient times to modern times. This historical perspective adds depth and richness to the book, making it more than just a collection of personal anecdotes.
Food as an Art Form: Fisher's belief that food is an art form resonates with readers who share her passion for the art of eating. She explores the cultural and philosophical aspects of food, making it more than just a means of sustenance but a celebration of life itself.
Charming Personality: Fisher's charming personality shines through in her writing, making her relatable and endearing to readers. Her love for food and exploration is infectious, inspiring readers to seek out new experiences and broaden their horizons.

Reasons for Recommendation

Engaging Storytelling: The book's engaging storytelling style keeps readers hooked from beginning to end, making it an enjoyable read for those who appreciate well-crafted narratives.
Vivid Description: Fisher's vivid descriptions transport readers to different culinary worlds, allowing them to experience the flavors and textures of different dishes firsthand. This immersive quality makes the book a delightful read for food enthusiasts and those who appreciate good writing.
Historical Context: The historical context provided by Fisher adds depth and richness to the book, offering readers a glimpse into the evolution of culinary practices over time. This historical perspective enriches the overall reading experience and provides valuable insights into the cultural significance of food.
Food as an Art Form: Fisher's exploration of food as an art form resonates with readers who share her passion for the art of eating. Her emphasis on the cultural and philosophical aspects of food makes this book more than just a cookbook or a collection of recipes; it is a celebration of life and a reflection on the human experience.
Charming Personality: Fisher's charming personality shines through in her writing, making her relatable and endearing to readers. Her love for food and exploration inspires readers to seek out new experiences and broaden their horizons, making this book not just a read but a journey of discovery and enlightenment.

Conclusion

"Serve It Forth" by M.F.K. Fisher is a culinary journey through history that captivates readers with its vivid descriptions, engaging storytelling, and exploration of food as an art form. The book's author, M.F.K. Fisher, is celebrated for her unique taste, skill at stirring memory and imagination into a potent brew, and her ability to transport readers to different culinary worlds through her writing. With its historical context, charming personality, and exploration of food as a celebration of life, "Serve It Forth" has earned its place as a recommended read for those who appreciate good writing, delicious food, and the art of living. Whether you are a food enthusiast or simply looking for a captivating read, this book offers something for everyone to savor and enjoy.