Reflective, Philosophical, Somewhat Satirical

This chapter explores the culinary aspects of the whale, historically considered a delicacy, and discusses the cultural and practical reasons why whale meat is not commonly eaten in civilized societies.

The chapter delves into the history of whale meat as a prized food, noting its high regard in past centuries, with special mention of its culinary uses in France and by English monarchs. The text discusses the food practices of various cultures, such as the Inuit and their reliance on whale meat and blubber, while also noting the unlikely consumption of whale meat among modern whalemen due to its overabundance and richness. The chapter further considers the philosophy of eating whale meat and the taboo associated with consuming a freshly killed sea creature by its own oil's light. It touches on the humorous irony of human consumption habits, critiquing civilized society's gourmand practices with a sardonic tone.