Essences might be chemically-developed flavours, but even in small quantities, they’re meant to convey the qualities of the original ingredient they mimic. Sometimes these flavours are craftily incorporated into food: there are manufacturers that use a little oregano and tomato flavouring for a pizza-flavoured biscuit. I’ve come across an artisanal drinks brand that use just a dash of vanilla to hint at custard in their products.
Similarly, it’s in the smallest of traits that our true character is revealed. Not in our job titles or our resumés, not in our confident swagger or our popularity amongst our peers. What do your own words and actions betray about you? Do you finish what you start, clean as you go, keep your word? Do you treat everyone with the same degree of respect?
What makes up the essence of you?