My Representation of Louisiana

Allen, Alton

I believe the picture that I selected accurately represents Louisiana because it focuses on what makes our state so distinguished. As a member of this exclusive society, we take pride in our southern culture and way of life. Our great state is known for its rich agriculture and its down- home feel of simplicity, but it is perhaps best- known for its cuisine. The picture that I selected emphasizes this point by portraying what our beautiful state is known for the most—our seafood.
Supplying 90% of the world’s crawfish alone, (Wikipedia.com) Louisiana has become the cornerstone of the 3 billion dollar seafood industry. People from all over travel hundreds sometimes thousands of miles just to be able to brag to their friends that they have tasted authentic Louisiana cuisines such as crawfish etouffee and seafood gumbo. All who have savored the tastes of such delectable dishes must also confess that there is nothing else like it. Unlike other states, our food plays a substantially large role in our culture. When one thinks of Louisiana, he or she immediately thinks of our signature foods.
Louisiana’s multifarious heritage gives rise to our creative and colorful cuisine. From the African roots of gumbo to the Italian roots of shrimp fettuccini, the foods descend from a number of origins outside of that of Louisiana or America, itself, for that matter. The reason our culture is so strong and has grown so successfully today is because within it we pay homage to many other cultures. This method of preservation correlates to our famed southern hospitality, which this state is also known for.
Some states have elaborate amusement parks. Other states even have historical landmarks. Louisiana, however, does not need such need such gimmicks; to reel in revenue, we attract tourists by the thousands just from our food alone. Our state being directly above the heart of the Gulf of Mexico makes us the prime location for the source of America’s seafood.
It does not take much to convince someone who knows little to nothing about Louisiana that we are the undisputed seafood capital of the world. The media alone makes this perfectly clear. For example, commercials such as that of Zaterain’s jambalaya mix containing a New Orleans big band setting and even the fact that there is a Louisiana brand hot sauce lets others know that Louisiana is a state primarily known for its distinctive and delicious delicacies.
Our state is one that is firmly grounded in its culture, and our signature foods are a part of that culture. Our dishes, most notably our seafood, are truly one of a kind. These particular foods attract the taste buds of curious tourists and avid Louisiana citizens alike. Our seafood is and always will be the centerpiece of Louisiana culture. This state has grown to become synonymous with this facet of eatery and will forever be grateful for such an honor. Time has shown that Louisiana cuisine has superseded the outskirts of our own culture and has now become an inductee of popular American culture.