It was such an ordinary phrase, and tossed off so casually, that I almost did not notice it. And even then, it took a second to register.
This was a few months ago, and I was watching one of the last episodes of the most recent season of “The Great British Baking Show.” Perhaps the most ebullient of the remaining four contestants, Crystelle Pereira, said she wants to concentrate on the baking and “just enjoy it.”
Just enjoy it.
First of all, have you ever heard any competitor on any American cooking show ever talk about enjoying it?
American contestants aren’t there to enjoy it; they are there to win. The thought of enjoyment never crosses their minds. They are far too concerned with the correct temperature to roast their Brussels sprouts or wondering whether anchovies taste good with fire-roasted tomatoes.