M. F. K. Fisher

M. F. K. Fisher, born Mary Frances Kennedy Fisher, was an American food writer and memoirist. She was born on July 3, 1908, in Albion, Michigan, and passed away on June 22, 1992, in Glen Ellen, California. Fisher is widely regarded as one of the most influential food writers of the 20th century.

Early Life and Education

Fisher grew up in a family that valued food and cooking. Her father, Rex Kennedy, was a newspaper editor, and her mother, Edith Ware Kennedy, was a teacher. Fisher developed a love for food and writing at an early age, often helping her mother in the kitchen and writing stories about her culinary experiences.

Fisher attended Albion College, where she studied English literature. During her time at college, she became involved in various literary and writing activities, including editing the college literary magazine. After graduating in 1929, Fisher moved to France to study at the University of Dijon. It was during her time in France that she developed a deep appreciation for French cuisine and culture, which would greatly influence her writing.

Writing Career

Fisher's writing career began in the late 1930s when she started submitting articles to various magazines. Her first published work, "Serve It Forth," was a collection of essays on food and cooking, published in 1937. This was followed by several more books, including "Consider the Oyster" (1941), "How to Cook a Wolf" (1942), and "The Gastronomical Me" (1943).

Fisher's writing style was characterized by her vivid descriptions of food and her personal experiences with cooking and eating. She often combined her love for food with her reflections on life, love, and the human experience. Her writing was praised for its honesty, wit, and lyrical prose.

Legacy

M. F. K. Fisher's contributions to the world of food writing have had a lasting impact. Her books continue to be widely read and celebrated for their literary quality and insightful observations on food and culture. Fisher's writing has inspired countless food writers and chefs, and her influence can be seen in the works of authors such as Ruth Reichl and Anthony Bourdain.

In recognition of her contributions to the culinary world, Fisher received numerous awards and honors throughout her career. She was inducted into the James Beard Foundation's Who's Who of Food and Beverage in America in 1983 and received the James Beard Foundation Lifetime Achievement Award in 1991.

External Links

• M. F. K. Fisher - Wikipedia
• Official Website of M. F. K. Fisher