Communication Quote by Iris Murdoch
““I ate and drank slowly as one should (cook fast, eat slowly) and without distractions such as (thank heavens) conversation or reading. Indeed eating is so pleasant one should even try to suppress thought. Of course reading and thinking are important but, my God, food is important too. How fortunate we are to be food-consuming animals. Every meal should be a treat and one ought to bless every day which brings with it a good digestion and the precious gift of hunger.””
About This Quote
Source Novel: The Sea, the Sea by Iris Murdoch, 1978
The passage celebrates mindful, undistracted eating as a sacred, pleasurable ritual that honors the body’s need for nourishment and the joy of hunger.
In simple terms: Enjoy food fully, without distractions.
Savor each meal mindfully.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- daily meals
- family dinner
- solo eating
- rituals
- celebrations
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you create space for distraction‑free meals?
- What does savoring food reveal about your relationship with your body?
Modern life’s constant multitasking can make true mindful eating difficult.