For as long as we can remember, we’ve been using a fork in what we believed was the right way. But did you know that there is an entirely different approach to holding this cutlery? Renowned etiquette expert, William Hanson, has taken to TikTok to debunk the traditional way of using a fork and sure enough, his expert tips have taken the internet by storm. In a series of now-viral videos, Hanson goes into the nitty-gritty of fork handling and shares some incredibly surprising revelations that are causing quite a stir in the world of dining
etiquette.
The Correct Way to Hold a Fork
In one of his eye-opening videos, Hanson reveals that the proper way to hold a fork is by grasping it in your non-dominant hand, with your index finger extended down the fork, stopping just short of the bridge. He emphasizes the importance of keeping the handle tucked into the palm of your hand and not sticking out. This unconventional technique has left many of us bewildered, as we’ve been accustomed to using a fork in a completely different manner all along.
The Biggest Dining Etiquette No-No
In another compelling video, Hanson highlights one of the biggest dining faux pas – turning over your fork to eat. This act of using the fork like a spoon is a major breach of British dining etiquette. According to Hanson, the tines of the fork should always point downwards when using a knife, and turning the fork over to scoop up food is a definite no-go. It’s a revelation that has left many of us reevaluating our dining habits and etiquette.
Acceptable Use of Fork in British Dining
Hanson sheds light on a few exceptions when it comes to using the fork in a non-traditional manner. He shares that in British dining, the fork is only turned upwards when held in the dominant hand, with the knife left behind on the table. Foods such as pasta, risotto, curries, and cottage/shepherd’s pie can be eaten using this unorthodox method, and it is considered entirely acceptable in informal dining. However, Hanson does mention that using a knife as well makes it much easier for tackling almost any dish, providing extra purchase on the food and preventing it from dropping or splashing.
British Fork Convention vs. American Eating Style
Hanson further delves into the cultural differences in fork usage between Britain and America. He points out that in America, there is a different eating style referred to as “Zig Zag,” which involves a laborious process of switching the fork and knife between hands while eating. This stark contrast in dining etiquette reveals the fascinating intricacies of cutlery usage across different cultures.
The After-Use Protocol for Cutlery
As the meal comes to an end, Hanson provides insight into the appropriate way to leave the knife and fork on the plate, signaling to the waitstaff that you have finished your meal. In Britain, the cutlery should be placed together at a specific angle, while in the U.S., a different angle signifies the same message. This small, subtle act carries significant weight in the world of dining etiquette, highlighting the meticulous attention to detail involved in every aspect of the dining experience.
Final Thoughts
As we absorb these enlightening revelations from William Hanson, it’s clear that the way we handle our cutlery holds a deeper significance than we might have ever imagined. The intricacies of dining etiquette not only vary across different cultures but also have a substantial impact on the overall dining experience. With Hanson’s expert tips and surprising revelations, it’s time to rethink the way we approach the simple act of using a fork and knife, and perhaps gain a newfound appreciation for the art of dining. So, the next time you reach for that fork, remember there’s more to it than meets the eye.
