I've been spending a lot of time talking about the interaction between memory and the senses for the last few weeks but I thought it was about time to ask those all important questions: what is memory? And how does it work?
Memory is the process by which information is encoded, stored and retrieved and, according to the research of Atkinson and Shiffrin, seems to operate on a stage model. The first stage of the model is sensory memory, our earliest stage of memory, which incorporates information from all of the senses and generally lasts for around 3-4 seconds. A small amount of this information then passes into the short-term memory.
From here a series of processes take place (shown in the diagram below) but I think you get the idea.
The reason I have chosen to discuss this process is because of the impact sensory memory can have on both long and short-term memories. Our bodies are overwhelmed by sensory information on a daily basis, yet it is the storage of a very small fraction of this information which inspires moments of Proustian recollection. The smell, taste, texture or even appearance of certain foods can leave a lasting imprint on the mind as this sensory information becomes synonymous with its surroundings, representing an experience or even a person. For Proust, it is the subtle combination of tea and Madeleine crumbs which brings memories of his long-forgotten aunt to mind, reminding him of the joys of childhood experience. The long-term memory works with the short-term to retrieve data which has long since been archived, recreating a moment of perfect clarity as the senses once again work together in harmony.
It is this relationship between the senses and memory which I hope to address in my next few blog entries as I try to recreate dishes which hold a particular memory, either to myself or another of my (un)willing subjects.
If you'd like any more information about the theory behind memory, try these websites:
http://www.thememorynetwork.net/
http://plato.stanford.edu/entries/memory/
Sam, I really enjoyed this post. I knew that food is capable of triggering memories,but I never thought to look into the reasons as to why that is. Now I know!
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