Ethnic Identification, Food, and Depression: Louise DeSalvo's Memoirs and the Female Italian American Experience

This article discusses Louise DeSalvo's memoirs, Vertigo and Crazy in the Kitchen, examining DeSalvo's self-definition through ethnic cuisine. Specifically, this article explores the interrelationships among ethnic identification, culinary practice, and female self-representation within the context of DeSalvo's turbulent Italian American family. By shedding light on her painful experiences, DeSalvo projects a powerful ethnic female figure, one who is ultimately strengthened by the difficulties and challenges she has endured.