The intangibility of ‘good taste,' from literature to food

F. Scott Fitzgerald's The Great Gatsby is a classic American novel set in the Jazz Age. The story follows Jay Gatsby, a mysterious millionaire, and his pursuit of his lost love, Daisy Buchanan. The novel explores themes of wealth, class, love, and the American Dream. Fitzgerald's writing is known for its elegance and its evocative portrayal of the Roaring Twenties. The Great Gatsby is a powerful and moving story that continues to resonate with readers today.

Published in 1876, 'Daniel Deronda' is George Eliot's final novel and a thought-provoking exploration of love, identity, and society. The story follows the lives of Gwendolen Harleth, a beautiful but spoiled and selfish young woman, and Daniel Deronda, a selfless and alienated man searching for his true origins. The novel delves into the complexities of Victorian society, including imperialism, the oppression of women, and racial and religious prejudice. Daniel's journey leads him to discover his Jewish heritage and become deeply involved in the nascent Zionist cause, while Gwendolen navigates a troubled marriage and seeks redemption. The novel is notable for its sympathetic portrayal of Jewish culture and its critique of antisemitism, making it a radical and controversial work in its time.

Normal People is a character-driven novel that delves into the intricate relationship between Marianne and Connell, starting from their high school days in County Sligo, Ireland, and continuing through their university years at Trinity College Dublin. The story explores themes of love, class division, mental health, and the complexities of human connection. Marianne, from an upper-class background with an abusive family, and Connell, from a working-class background, engage in a secret relationship in high school due to Connell's fear of social judgment. As they grow and navigate different social worlds, their relationship is marked by periods of intense connection and separation, influenced by their socioeconomic backgrounds and personal insecurities. Rooney's writing is characterized by its spare prose, detailed character development, and a deep exploration of the psychological and emotional nuances of the characters.

Moby-Dick is a novel that tells the story of Captain Ahab's maniacal quest for revenge against Moby Dick, the giant white sperm whale that bit off his leg. Narrated by Ishmael, the story follows the crew of the whaling ship Pequod as they embark on a journey that explores themes of obsession, man vs. nature, and the existential questions of good and evil. The novel is rich in detailed descriptions of whale hunting and life aboard a culturally diverse crew, and it has become a cornerstone of American and world literature.

Middlemarch, written by George Eliot, is a novel that delves into the complexities of provincial life in 19th-century England. The story revolves around the intersecting lives of its characters, particularly Dorothea Brooke and Dr. Tertius Lydgate, as they navigate marriage, vocation, and social class. Eliot critiques the conventional romance narratives of her time by portraying marriage as a complex and often problematic institution. The novel also explores themes of idealism, self-interest, hypocrisy, and the constraints on women's lives. Set in the fictional town of Middlemarch between 1829 and 1832, the novel incorporates historical events such as the Great Reform Act of 1832 and early developments in medicine. Eliot's realistic portrayal of ordinary human life, with its quiet tragedies and small triumphs, has made 'Middlemarch' a masterpiece of English literature.

The Flavor Equation delves into the science of taste, exploring how elements like brightness, bitterness, saltiness, sweetness, savoriness, fieriness, and richness contribute to flavor. Nik Sharma combines his scientific background with culinary expertise to create a comprehensive guide for home cooks and chefs alike. The book features a blend of traditional and fusion recipes, accompanied by evocative photography and detailed explanations of cooking techniques.