However extravagant and whimsical the rational pleasures of the table
may appear to a _sober_ and sensible mind, we must, in justice to
epicures, cursorily observe, that there exists a material difference
between a _gormand_ or epicure, and a _glutton_.[10] The first seeks for
peculiar delicacy and distinct flavour in the various dishes presented
to the judgment and enjoyment of his discerning palate; while the other
lays aside nearly all that relates to the rational pleasures of
creating or stimulating an appetite of the cates, and looks merely to
quantity; this, has his stomach in view, and tries how heavy it may be
laden, without endangering his health.
[10] _Tabella Cibaria_, a latin poem, relating to the pleasures of
Gastronomy, and the mysterious art of Cooking, page 15.
“The _gormand_ never loses sight of the exquisite organs of taste, so
admirably disposed by Providence in the crimson chamber, where sits the
discriminating judge, the human tongue.
“The _glutton_ is anathematised in the Scripture with those brutes
_quorum deus venter est_. The other appears guilty of no other sin than
of too great, and too minute, an attention to refinement in commercial
sensuality.”
Our neighbours on the other side of the channel, so famous for indulging
in the worship of Comus, consider the epicure again under two distinct
views, namely: as a _gormand_, or a _gourmet_. The epicure or _gormand_
is defined--a man having accidentally been able to study the different
tastes of eatables, does accordingly select the best food and the most
pleasing to his palate. His character is that of a _practioner_. The
_gourmet_ speculates more than he practises, and eminently prides
himself in discerning the nicest degrees, and most evanescent shades of
goodness and perfection in the different subjects proposed to him. He
may be designated a man, who, by sipping a few drops out of the silver
cup of the vintner, can instantly tell from what country the wine comes,
and its age.
The _glutton_ practices without any regard to theory.
The _gormand_, or epicure, unites theory with practice.
The _gourmet_ is merely theoretical.