Most of television is drama. Lots of conflict, even in the comedies. And somewhere along the line, someone decided the agony of defeat was way more interesting than the thrill of victory. I hope people don't really like watching others humiliated nearly as much as network executives think we do.
But the Food Network is different. The Food Network is all about competence. All day, all night, they've got pros showing off their competence, maybe trying to impart some of it to their audience. Even the competition coverage is all about how well all the contestants are doing. They go to the Pillsbury Bake-off, and it's all about what a tough job the judges have choosing among the yumminess. Or it's the national cake decorating contest, and the other contestants talk about how Jane Sweet's effort totally deserves a win it's so good, except, did you see that amazing piping work on Sugar Plum's cake? On the Food Network, even Anthony Bourdain goes positive, raving about sausage off a roadside grill, or the delights of getting liquored up with the locals, and how much he loves his job.
Tonight I watched two episodes of Ace of Cakes. The "drama" consisted of a total lack of artistic inspiration for frosting magnolias, the boss hiring a bagpiper to serenade his employees, and some sliding icing. All of which got resolved in time for punctual deliveries. The rest was just watching a bunch of amusingly pleasant people do good work in good company. Oh, and produce an edible replica of Skull Island with volcano, villagers, and one scary-ass King Kong. Such a lovely antidote to the rest of television...
Today's earrings: sapphires, estrogen molecules
Bedtime reading: Voter Information Pamphlet and Sample Ballot, San Francisco Department of Elections
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