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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…” quote by Iris Murdoch
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““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.””

Iris Murdoch

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.

Key Takeaway

Savor each meal mindfully.

Themes

mindfulness pleasure gratitude food body spirituality

Mood

contemplative calm reverent

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • daily meals
  • family dinner
  • solo eating
  • rituals
  • celebrations

Key Concepts

sensory awareness slow living embodiment

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you create space for distraction‑free meals?
  • What does savoring food reveal about your relationship with your body?
A Different Perspective

Modern life’s constant multitasking can make true mindful eating difficult.

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