Sublime

The people drank and nibbled, while they discussed the issues of the day, sorting, rejecting, revising. Then they went home, quietly, elegantly. They retired to homes not one whit less solid or…

3. After the meal—relaxation. Relaxation after the meal was a must. People would converse. Philosophical, spiritual, and intellectual ideas were discussed. The atmosphere and mood were care-free. Roman people liked humor, especially at night. Music, dancing, and poetry were popular as well.

The traditional topics of Aspen conversation—adultery, stock tips, cosmetic surgery, studio larceny—had been replaced by talk of cellars and vintages, Bordeaux versus California, optimum aging times, and, of course, wine prices.

Even when I was in the advertising business during those palmy days when the industry motto was “Let’s have lunch!” and the road to success was strewn with menus, I was never able to come to terms with the working lunch. For me, work and lunch are two activities that were never meant to coexist and should never be forced to do so. Lunch is—or it

Suyako dipped her first piece of tonkatsu in the ponzu sauce, then brought it to her mouth. She chewed carefully on it a few times. Then her face broke into a gentle smile. ‘Delicious.’ The word wasn’t addressed to anyone in particular, but seemed to burst from her mouth. For her second piece, she chose the spicy sauce. This time, before taking a

Richard and I both thanked Don for being so candid. Then Don asked, “Is that all? Is that what you wanted to know?”

It was nearly eight o’clock, and those who had food were cooking dinner. Those who did not were preparing for bed. An evening stroll had become a dangerous custom, and in a city without fuel, darkness meant bedtime.