The Poles at table – eating habits and drinking manners of Polish people in Wojciech Młynarski’s songs

Abstract

In Wojciech Młynarski’s early songs culinary and drinking motives serve both main and secondary functions. There are snacks and soups (one song even gives a recipe for żurek), main courses (different Polish chops and cutlets, Boeuf Stroganoff, etc.), desserts (cakes, loaves, icecream). There are drinks as well (beer, wine, vodka, but also coca-cola). People who sit at a table and eat these dishes are often quite bizarre and strange characters (a supercilious singer, office lovers, weird members of a multigenerational family). The food described in the lyrics is frequently connected with three topics and refers to love, the socio-political realities of a communist country, and tradition. Drinks and beverages presented in various contexts and situations help the songwriter create a portrait of the Polish society.