Tabling the Discussion

Having been born and raised in Cuba, I dispute Andrew Coe’s description of a typical Cuban family at mealtime (“Cuba’s Magic Numbers,” Dec. 4). Cubans do not “eat in silence”; they’re rarely quiet at any gathering--including family meals. Furthermore, retiring to another room and leaving a guest to dine by himself would be considered a rude thing to do.

Nothing would please the cook in a Cuban household more than being able to delight guests with a well-cooked meal. Perhaps Coe’s hosts were afraid of the repercussions of having a foreign visitor in their home. Knowing my fellow Cubans, that would seem more logical.

Irene Vera

Los Angeles