While sushi does refer to the prepared rice and vinegar, It is also used generically for the style or method of preparation of food developed in Japan.Many of my vegetarian friends enjoy sushi as much as I do. And for those who love meat but are abit squeamish about the raw part - tempura fish and smoked fish is also common in sushi.
By the way, I'd love to see the vast talents of the Mudcat turned loose in an effort to write an "Ode to Sushi" that celebrates the food. Surely this is appropriate considering the songs composed to celebrate all the other gastronomical delights of the world. How about it?
pax yall