The Omnivore's Dilemna
by Michael Pollan


"Grass"


I lead the discussion on this particular section, so I know it well. And I can say with all certainty that it is thought-provoking, but perhaps for not all the right reasons. We have to be careful when reading diction like Pollan's... His eloquence can help to mask an agenda. The terminology that he uses, his use of which is subtle at times, yet explicit in others, is a tad manipulative. He wants us to hate corn. And in that vein, he wants us to love grass farming. He clearly believes that one is a purer form of farming than the other, and, as he is in the business of selling books, he likes to use sensational language that demonizes the one while exalting the other. With that caveat out of the way, I did enjoy reading about Salatin's alternative farming methods. I think that he's on to something. After having read this piece, I now want to go out and try his world-famous eggs, or one of his more "chicken-tasting" chickens. Eating mostly local foods might not be a lifestyle that everyone can ascribe to, but it is one that I think everyone should know about, so that at least if they don't change their lifestyle it will be a choice rather than a necessity.