Pig Slaughter: The Difference of Worlds

Aaron Pratt

October 27, 2016

ENG1000- Cox

Essay #2

Pig Slaughter: The Difference of Worlds

Americans have the least bit of appreciation when it comes to the food that shows up on their plate, but Chef Anthony Bourdain shows that not everyone experiences the process of killing, preparing, and enjoying food in the same manner. In “Where Food Comes From,” the first chapter of his best-selling book A Cook’s Tour: In Search of the Perfect Meal, Bourdain tells of the time he had visited Portugal to experience a traditional pig slaughter with his boss, chef José Meirelles, and family. Bourdain is able to effectively highlight how far Americans are removed from the process of food by contrasting his own discomfort with the joy of Meirelles’ family. Bourdain uses appeals to arguments, stylistic persona, illuminating imagery, and relatable examples to really strengthen his view that most Americans now have no idea how their food gets to their plate.

In his introduction, Bourdain starts with a light, enjoyable tone that draws the audience in and makes them feel comfortable. With his use of strong adjectives and vivid word choice, Bourdain is able to paint a picture of a small, northern Portuguese town. A comfortable feel and strong imagery are able to grasp the audience right off the bat. Bourdain is able to relate with his audience because most people have never witnessed first-hand the killing of a pig. After arriving at Jose’s house, his tone makes a drastic change. All of sudden, Bourdain becomes very squeamish and uncomfortable as he witnesses the “blood feast.” (Bourdain 21) While he is struggling to keep it together, he is amazed by how unfazed the children were during the events. They had been raised on a farm their whole life, and were used to the process. “The look on their little faces could barely be described as interest.” (Bourdain 22) Bourdain goes on to describe the pig’s slaughter in gruesome, gory detail as his illuminating details and descriptive word choice are cringe-worthy. The lack of Americans that have witnessed a pig slaughtering allows for Bourdain to easily share his disgust with his audience.