Daniel replies:

First of all, I do not use actual eggplants in the writing of books.  I use the usual tools, a computer, paper, pencils, and things like that.  Second, the eggplant is a sadly misunderstood fruit.  It is not so much what it is, but what you can do with it.  By itself, I agree, in its natural state is it horrible--but you do not eat it raw.  I knew a man who liked raw eggplant, and he was weird in other ways, but most people cook them.  Prepared with skill, and in certain recipes it is a different story.  Perhaps one day you will go among sophisticated people, and then you may find the eggplant is your best friend.