We have come to the conclusion of Amor Towles’ novel, so this week David, Heidi, and Ian discussed the Casablanca of it all, whether the book ends in a satisfying fashion, and the count’s trajectory of growth.
Throughout the novel, there are repeated references to the potted palms in the lobby. From the day the Count walked in under escort (page 10) to the day he left (page 446) he sat in the chair between them, or some visitor would stand behind them. In 32 years nothing changed about the potted palms. Is there significance to, or something represented by, the potted palms?
Q&A comment/question: I agreed with Heidi that Sophia being a musical prodigy was the thing that pushed me a little too far. It struck me almost like a Deus ex machina - between the Americans in the bar and a piano genius, it was clear to me that she would defect and that would bring us to the conclusion. But I don’t know a whole lot about that literary trope so maybe that’s not a fair assessment. What do you think?
Thank you!! THIS was the discussion I have wanted about this book. All the strengths and weaknesses balanced and focused. Maybe this book is better discussed in one gulp?
Real question for Q&A episode: Can you talk about the bread in Mishka's book? What did you think of that, what did it mean? I thought maybe bread and honey saved the Count from suicide years back, but when bread did not come up again after Mishka's book, I thought nah, Tols wouldn't be so subtle. But maybe he could be...?
2-Part Question for Q&A Episode. (a) What book would you bring along with your toothbrush and 3 changes of clothes to escape house arrest? (b) if you did not answer Anna Karenina like the Count, explain why Tim should deign to continue podcasting with you.
Yes! Totally agree. To me, the glaring absence of God was clearly what was “wrong”, but “There’s no God in the book” is to a terribly thoughtful criticism. This podcast helped me clarify the problem in my own head. I love Heidi’s three-circle method.
Throughout the novel, there are repeated references to the potted palms in the lobby. From the day the Count walked in under escort (page 10) to the day he left (page 446) he sat in the chair between them, or some visitor would stand behind them. In 32 years nothing changed about the potted palms. Is there significance to, or something represented by, the potted palms?
Q&A comment/question: I agreed with Heidi that Sophia being a musical prodigy was the thing that pushed me a little too far. It struck me almost like a Deus ex machina - between the Americans in the bar and a piano genius, it was clear to me that she would defect and that would bring us to the conclusion. But I don’t know a whole lot about that literary trope so maybe that’s not a fair assessment. What do you think?
Thank you!! THIS was the discussion I have wanted about this book. All the strengths and weaknesses balanced and focused. Maybe this book is better discussed in one gulp?
Real question for Q&A episode: Can you talk about the bread in Mishka's book? What did you think of that, what did it mean? I thought maybe bread and honey saved the Count from suicide years back, but when bread did not come up again after Mishka's book, I thought nah, Tols wouldn't be so subtle. But maybe he could be...?
2-Part Question for Q&A Episode. (a) What book would you bring along with your toothbrush and 3 changes of clothes to escape house arrest? (b) if you did not answer Anna Karenina like the Count, explain why Tim should deign to continue podcasting with you.
Great episode! Helpful and thoughtful analysis, as always! Thanks y’all 🙂
totally agree. Love the clarity on what was missing - I felt the exact same way you guys did and you really helped me understand why
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Yes! Totally agree. To me, the glaring absence of God was clearly what was “wrong”, but “There’s no God in the book” is to a terribly thoughtful criticism. This podcast helped me clarify the problem in my own head. I love Heidi’s three-circle method.