Understanding the “Blue Plate Special”
The “blue plate special” is a phrase deeply embedded in American culture, evoking images of diners, affordability, and simple, hearty meals. At its most basic, a blue plate special is a fixed price, complete meal offered by a restaurant, typically at a lower cost than ordering items à la carte. But the phrase carries layers of meaning beyond just a discount; it represents a specific moment in culinary and social history, and continues to resonate in literature and everyday language.
Origin of the “Blue Plate Special”
The precise origin is debated, but the term began gaining traction in the United States in the early 20th century. The most commonly cited explanation traces it to diners that served a budget‑friendly meal on a blue ceramic plate. Some claim the phrase originated on railroad dining cars, where passengers were served meals on blue china plates, and the “special” was advertised as a complete, inexpensive option. The idea spread rapidly to diners and small restaurants across the country, becoming a cornerstone of their offerings. The phrase signaled value and reliability, especially during the Great Depression when affordable meals were essential.
Analyzing the “Blue Plate Special” in Literature
The “blue plate special” isn’t just about food; it’s a potent symbol. In literature, it often represents simplicity, nostalgia, the working class, and the compromises inherent in everyday life. Its use can be both literal and figurative, adding depth to character development, setting, and thematic concerns. Here are some ways the phrase manifests in literary works:
Symbolism of Acceptance and Compromise
Often, a “blue plate special” in literature signifies accepting what is available, even if it isn’t ideal. It can represent a character’s willingness to settle for less, or their pragmatic approach to life. It suggests contentment with the ordinary and finding value in the unpretentious. Consider how a character might choose the blue plate special over a more elaborate dish, demonstrating their values or financial situation.
Evoking a Sense of Place and Time
The phrase is deeply rooted in American culinary history. Mentioning a “blue plate special” immediately transports readers to a specific time and place – a mid‑century diner, a small‑town café, a working‑class neighborhood. It creates a strong sense of setting and atmosphere, grounding the story in tangible reality.
Representing Economic Hardship or Working‑Class Life
Historically, the “blue plate special” was a meal for those who couldn’t afford more expensive options. In literature, it can serve as a subtle indicator of a character’s economic circumstances or social class. It might highlight themes of poverty, struggle, and resilience.
Literary Examples
Let’s examine how the phrase operates in several literary works:
“The Blue-Plate Special” by Robert Winthrop. This poem uses the “blue plate special” as a metaphor for marriage. The speaker’s mother compares a marriage to a fixed meal—you receive a complete package, flaws and all. You can’t cherry‑pick the desirable parts and discard the rest. It emphasizes acceptance and the complexities of long‑term relationships. The “blue plate special” becomes a symbol of compromise and the importance of accepting the entirety of a commitment.
“Blue Special Plate” by Edison Jennings. Here, the phrase isn’t explicitly about a bargain, but rather about a shared, simple meal consumed in the midst of grief. The “blue plate special” represents the family’s attempt to maintain a semblance of normalcy while coping with loss. It signifies a moment of connection and shared mourning, where food, however mundane, becomes a source of comfort. The simplicity of the meal mirrors the raw, unadorned emotions of the characters.
“Blue Plate” by Jesse Lee Kercheval. This brief excerpt establishes a setting – a “designer diner” with a focus on comfort food. While the phrase doesn’t carry a deeper symbolic weight, it still evokes a specific atmosphere and appeals to a sense of nostalgia. It hints at a revival of classic American cuisine and the desire for familiar, comforting experiences.
“Blue Plate Special” by Rick Altizer. This piece utilizes the phrase in a more ironic and cynical way. The speaker questions the quality of the “blue plate special,” suggesting it’s yesterday’s leftovers. This subverts the traditional meaning of the phrase, implying a lack of genuine value and a willingness to accept substandard offerings. It can be interpreted as a commentary on consumerism or the deceptive practices of businesses.
Beyond Literature: Wider Implications
The “blue plate special” has transcended its origins to become a cultural touchstone. It is frequently used in colloquial speech, advertising, and popular culture to evoke feelings of comfort, affordability, and nostalgia. The phrase is often employed to suggest authenticity and unpretentiousness, appealing to a desire for simpler times and genuine experiences. It reminds us of a time when a good, honest meal was a source of comfort and community. In contemporary usage, the phrase can also be used sarcastically or satirically, highlighting the discrepancies between advertising and reality.
Here are a few examples of the phrase in everyday use:
- “I’m on a tight budget, so I’m looking for a blue plate special.”
- “This diner is known for its blue plate specials – they’re always hearty and filling.”
- “The band’s new album is like a blue plate special – it’s familiar, comforting, and guaranteed to please.”
In conclusion, the “blue plate special” is far more than just a discounted meal. It’s a rich and evocative phrase that carries layers of meaning—historical, cultural, and symbolic. Whether it appears in literature, advertising, or everyday conversation, it continues to resonate with audiences, reminding us of a simpler time and the enduring appeal of good, honest food and genuine experiences.