(shaking out) the tablecloth

What does (Shaking Out) the Tablecloth Mean?

While living abroad, I took notice that for every meal, including breakfast, the table would be set - always with a tablecloth laid. The cloths were MOstly old, embroidered family hand-me-downs that were a little tattered but well loved. the “fancy ones” were brought out for special occasions. Everyone would gather around the table (rarely an exception obliged). conversation was always alive and vibrant around the table. discussing plans for the day, sharing stories both exceptional and banal, exchanging trivial grievances, offering brilliant anecdotes, debating (everything) and prattling on about everything else in between.

these experiences, particularly in Italy, showed me a more interactive and often enchanting table culture. Talking was very much encouraged. enthusiastic hand gestures, honest discourse and all the village gossip was laid bare. Sides were taken over the minutia of everyday life. which bar serves the best espresso? the eggplant grown on this side of the river is superior to the opposite side, prove me wrong! At the same table truths were admitted, romantic gestures were observed, aggravations were (temporarily) stifled. Advice came from every chair and at the end of the meal you felt full - satiated in every way.

once the plates were cleared the tablecloth would be gathered, pulling each corner together to ensure the crumbs left behind didn’t flutter to the ground. it was taken outside and shook clean in the air - and with it all the stories, laughter and debate of the day went into the wind. The cloth was refolded and put away until the next meal.

Every time the tablecloth is laid, its not just a new meal to enjoy but also an opportunity for new stories, rehashed squabbles, flirty glances, sage advice and laughter, always laughter.

To echo one of my favourtite Anthony Bourdain quotes “You learn alot about someone when you share a meal together.”

Each month I will share with you and then shake out the tablecloth. the next month - a whole new collection of stories, recipes, ideas and personal insight is laid on the table.