It is the mark of a mean, vulgar and ignoble spirit to dwell on the thought of food before meal times or worse to dwell on it afterwards, to discuss it and wallow in the remembered pleasures of every mouthful. Those whose minds dwell before dinner on the spit, and after on the dishes, are fit only to be scullions.

Summary

This quote conveys the belief that constantly thinking about food, both before and after meals, reflects a low and unrefined nature. It implies that individuals who obsess over their next meal and indulge in relishing the memories of every bite are only fit for menial kitchen tasks. The quote suggests that there is something crass and undignified about preoccupying oneself excessively with food, as it indicates a lack of intellectual or noble pursuits.

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