Or it can admit, at least privately, that the talks are simply a bizarre bit of bartering in which America (and now other countries) fork over money, oil and other things in return for empty promises.

ECONOMIST: Asia.view

Rather her hungry stare is directed towards my fork as it hangs over the lavishly minimalist dish of olive oil poached striped sea bass.

FORBES: Fine Dining At New York City's Ai Fiori

Using a large fork to fluff up the rice and fruit mixture, turn it into a serving dish, drizzle with the remaining 2 tablespoons oil and 1 tablespoon orange juice, and combine using the fork.

NPR: Recipes: 'Screen Doors and Sweet Tea'