The author has a point about simplicity. My daughter and I regularly get together for meals. Sometimes we just are not very hungry. We resort to something quick and simple when that happens. Our solution, just a baguette and a glass of wine. Great bread and good wine. It doesn't get much more simple. Good company makes a meal more than lots of food.
A jambon-beurre is just one step removed and a good solution to a little hunger when a full meal is not required. Just add some good butter and ham. Want to take that a step further, make a croque monsieur - add béchamel sauce and grill. Not satisfied yet? Add an egg and have a croque madame. It all starts with good bread.