Final answer:
The main difference is that the mother is practical and unbothered by not having a traditional Thanksgiving turkey, whereas the author nostalgically appreciates the feast and sees the turkey as a luxurious and desirable component of the holiday.
Step-by-step explanation:
The main difference between how the author and his mother feel about the Thanksgiving turkey is centered on their respective associations and responses to the holiday's symbol, the turkey. The mother seems to be indifferent or resigned about not having a traditional Thanksgiving dinner, as evidenced by her willingness to get by with just bread and milk. In contrast, the author's description, plucked from a different narrative, is enthusiastic and vivid, displaying a deep-seated appreciation and craving for the holiday feast, where every dish, especially the turkey, is imbued with luxury and desire.
The mother's practicality and the author's sentimentality towards the Thanksgiving dinner establish the stark contrast in their feelings. The author sees the turkey and the feast as a symbol of abundance and enjoyment, while his mother appears to prioritize the pragmatics of the situation over the celebration typically associated with a Thanksgiving turkey.