Homemade Almond Paste, with its rich and natural flavor, perfectly complements the intricate and emotional narrative of "Every Note Played" by Lisa Genova. The delicately balanced sweetness of the almond paste echoes the bittersweet journey of loss and love explored in the book. Pairing this with a classic Amaretto Sour enhances the almond theme and provides a comforting, familiar taste that is both sweet and tangy. This triad of flavors, emotions, and narratives creates a harmonious and reflective experience for the reader.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups blanched almonds
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 large egg white
- 1 tsp almond extract
- 1/4 tsp salt
Instructions
- Prepare the Almonds: If you’re using whole almonds, blanch them in boiling water for 1 minute, then transfer to cold water. Slip off the skins and pat dry. Alternatively, use pre-blanched almonds for convenience.
- Process the Almonds: In a food processor, pulse the blanched almonds until they are finely ground but not yet turning into almond butter. Scrape down the sides as needed.
- Add the Sweeteners: Add the powdered sugar, almond extract, and salt to the ground almonds. Pulse to combine until the mixture starts to resemble a coarse dough.
- Add the Egg White: Add the egg white to the almond mixture and process until the mixture comes together into a smooth, pliable paste. If the paste seems too dry, add a tiny bit more egg white, but be careful not to make it too wet.
- Store: Transfer the almond paste to a piece of plastic wrap, shaping it into a log or disk. Wrap tightly and store in the refrigerator for up to a week or freeze for up to three months.
Every Note Played
A poignant exploration of love, regret, and the powerlessness of time, "Every Note Played" tells the story of a renowned pianist suffering from ALS. As he deteriorates, he's forced to reconcile with his ex-wife, examining jointly held memories and missed opportunities.
“Unsparing in her depiction of the disease’s harrowing effects, neuroscientist Genova also celebrates humanity.” —People “Sometimes it’s easier to tell truth in fiction…And she tells it with heart and hope.” —NPR “Her juxtaposition of scientific detail with compassionate, heartfelt storytelling is unparalleled.” —Bookreporter “Every Note Played will grip and gut you.” —The Boston Globe From neuroscientist and New York Times bestselling author of Still Alice comes a powerful exploration of regret, forgiveness, freedom, and what it means to be alive. An accomplished concert pianist, Richard received standing ovations from audiences all over the world in awe of his rare combination of emotional resonance and flawless technique. Every finger of his hands was a finely calibrated instrument, dancing across the keys and striking each note with exacting precision. That was eight months ago. Richard now has ALS, and his entire right arm is paralyzed. His fingers are impotent, still, devoid of possibility. The loss of his hand feels like a death, a loss of true love, a divorce—his divorce. He knows his left arm will go next. Three years ago, Karina removed their framed wedding picture from the living room wall and hung a mirror there instead. But she still hasn’t moved on. Karina is paralyzed by excuses and fear, stuck in an unfulfilling life as a piano teacher, afraid to pursue the path she abandoned as a young woman, blaming Richard and their failed marriage for all of it. When Richard becomes increasingly paralyzed and is no longer able to live on his own, Karina becomes his reluctant caretaker. As Richard’s muscles, voice, and breath fade, both he and Karina try to reconcile their past before it’s too late. Poignant and powerful, Every Note Played is a masterful exploration of redemption and what it means to find peace inside of forgiveness.
Discussion Questions
- How does music play a role in shaping the characters' identities and choices?
- In what ways does the progression of ALS mirror or contrast with the emotional development of Richard and Karina?
- What role do forgiveness and regret play in the narrative?
- How do secondary characters contribute to the main characters' journeys?
- Discuss the portrayal of caregiving and its impact on identity and relationship dynamics.
- How does the author use musical metaphors to convey underlying themes?
- In what ways are communication and silence pivotal to the story's development?
- Consider the ending: how does it impact your understanding of Richard and Karina's relationship?
- What does the novel suggest about passion and the arts in the face of decline?
- How might the story differ if told from alternating perspectives in the present tense?
Authors:
Lisa Genova
ISBN: 9781476717777
Publisher: Simon and Schuster
Published Date: 2018-03-20
ISBN: 9781476717777
Publisher: Simon and Schuster
Published Date: 2018-03-20
Amaretto Sour
A classic sweet and tangy cocktail that complements the almond richness of your homemade almond paste. Perfect for a cozy evening with "Every Note Played," its bright flavors enhance the emotional journey of the novel.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 ounces Amaretto liqueur
- 1 ounce fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 ounce simple syrup
- Orange slice and cherry for garnish
Instructions
- Fill a shaker with ice and add the Amaretto, lemon juice, and simple syrup.
- Shake well until chilled.
- Strain into an old-fashioned glass with ice.
- Garnish with an orange slice and cherry.