Question

Not surprisingly, Abuela was busy cooking up a storm for our family dinner. I spied the freshly made salsa on the counter and couldn’t resist sneaking a spoonful. It was superb as always, and I savored the fire on my tongue.
Write a brief paragraph explaining how the figurative language in the passage relates to its cultural setting.

(4 points)

Answer 1

The passage employs vivid figurative language to evoke sensory experiences tied to culinary traditions, which are central to many Latin cultures. Phrases like "cooking up a storm" and "salsa on the counter" emphasize the richness and vibrancy of the cooking process, reflecting not just a meal but a communal experience often associated with family gatherings. The description of savoring "the fire on my tongue" suggests the use of spices prevalent in Latin cuisine, invoking a sense of warmth and excitement that mirrors the warmth of familial bonds. This imagery conveys how food serves as both sustenance and a means of nurturing relationships within the cultural setting, highlighting the importance of shared meals in fostering connection and tradition.