Tender Is the Flesh

Content Warning: The source text includes graphic depictions of cannibalism, sexual assault, mass human suffering, incarceration, misogynistic violence (including reproductive violence), and death by suicide.

“His brain warns him that there are words that cover up the world. There are words that are convenient, hygienic. Legal.”

As the novel opens, Tejo reminds himself that words and language can just as easily obscure the truth as reveal it. This sets the stage for an examination of Language Versus Reality that continues throughout the novel. Tejo’s characterization of certain words as being figuratively “hygienic” is particularly apt given the nature of his work as a manager at a meat processing facility. Just as some language can spread alarm and negativity leading to rebellion, other words can reframe perspectives, reducing discontent.

“He thinks that Señor Urami needs to reaffirm reality through words, as though words created and maintain the world in which he lives.”

Tejo comes to feel that the world inhabited by such businesspeople as Señor Urami is constructed not by labor or machinery but through words. In other words, the perception of a distinction between the people who work in the tannery and the human subjects who are raised and killed for their meat and skin was non-existent until language was used to invent it. Moreover, to keep the illusion alive and convincing, a constant stream of suitable language is required.

“From the corner of his mouth, the orange sauce slowly falls and begins to drip onto his white sneakers.”

As Tejo and Egmont tour the breeding center, Egmont accepts a barbecue sandwich containing meat taken from a child. Here, Bazterrica draws attention to the sauce that drips from his mouth as he eats.