Living in San Francisco, my visual appetite never feels shorted, as I am constantly hit with breathtaking views, colorful characters, and art (whether that be the architecture that surrounds me, the trees on Hyde, or a more traditional form).
I cherish my morning walks to work, whether they consist of the full adventure of 1.8 miles by foot from Russian Hill to SOMA or a hop on the cable car or a bus and then a brisk 15-minute walk to my office from Union Square. I have a particular fondness for the quintessentially San Francisco Gump’s store on Post street, as the shop’s feel is more that of a museum, and their window displays always tease something luxe to be desired.
Recently, Gump’s windows boasted a few elegant, white china lines with playful backdrops divulging proverbs and quotes about dining. I couldn’t resist but commemorate the occasion:
The first traditional proverb and quote by English logician (what a fab word), economist, and theologian Richard Whately speak to the vulnerability that comes with a hungry tummy…..
“Never argue at the dinner table, for the one who is not hungry always gets the best of the argument.” – Richard Whately (1 February 1787 β 8 October 1863)
“Never ask a favor of someone until they have had their dinner.” – Traditional Proverb
The next two by Irish writers Oscar Wilde and John Doran speak to the nurturing effect (whether arousing forgiveness or an open heart) that a good dinner can have on a person. Centuries later, I think they still ring true.
“A good dinner sharpens wit, while it softens the heart.” – John Doran (March 11, 1807 β January 25, 1878)
“After a good dinner one can forgive anybody, even one’s own relations.” – Oscar Wilde (October 16, 1854 β November 30, 1900)
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