I always have this sense of food as triangular, in that one point is nourishment, one point is connection, and one point is pleasure, and I always come at it from the pleasure and connection points, and the nourishment follows.

The quote by Crescent Dragonwagon — “I always have this sense of food as triangular, in that one point is nourishment, one point is connection, and one point is pleasure, and I always come at it from the pleasure and connection points, and the nourishment follows.” — presents a holistic and emotionally rich perspective on food. Dragonwagon describes food as a triangle with three essential dimensions: nourishment, connection, and pleasure. While nourishment is the biological function of food, she emphasizes that for her, the emotional and social aspects — pleasure in eating and connection with others — are the primary entry points, with physical nourishment naturally following.

The origin of this quote reflects Dragonwagon’s background as an award-winning cookbook author, children’s writer, and culinary thinker. Known for her deep appreciation of both the art and meaning of food, she often explores the role it plays in fostering relationships, celebrating culture, and nurturing the soul. Her metaphor of food as a triangle captures the multidimensional experience of eating — one that transcends mere sustenance and speaks to joy, community, and care.

By stating that she approaches food first through pleasure and connection, Dragonwagon challenges overly utilitarian or diet-centric views of eating. She suggests that when we prioritize flavor, sensory enjoyment, and shared meals, we naturally end up fulfilling our nutritional needs as well. This approach honors mindful eating and reinforces the idea that food is not just fuel, but a powerful medium for human bonding and emotional satisfaction.

Ultimately, the quote is a reminder that how we experience food matters just as much as what we eat. Dragonwagon invites us to embrace food as a celebration of life, where nourishment is not merely a goal but a result of meaningful and joyful engagement with what’s on our plate — and with those we share it with.