Maestro by Peter Goldsworthy

Maestro Essay Topics

In learning about the ‘maestro’, Paul also learns about himself. Discuss.

Neither Keller nor Paul is an entirely admirable character. Discuss.

The text shows that guilt is the most powerful factor in determining the choices we make in life. Discuss.

‘I belonged to Keller’s school, in the broad sense.’ p.127 This reveals as much about Paul as it does about Keller. Discuss.

Maestro is ultimately an optimistic book, which suggests that personal growth can arise out of disappointment. Discuss.

Even by the end of the novel, Paul fails to completely understand Keller. Discuss.

A strong sense of place is common to the characters in Maestro. Discuss.

While the driven and self-centred Paul is not especially likeable, he is still able to command the reader’s sympathy. Discuss.

While Rosie Zollo is depicted as a positive character, the female characters in Maestro are completely subordinated to the needs of the men around them. Discuss.

Paul the adult is much more likeable than Paul the adolescent. To what extent do you agree?

Looking back Paul reflects that Keller was the worst possible teacher for him. To what extent do you agree?

At the end of the narrative, Paul calls Keller a ‘great man’. To what extent do you agree?

The world the novel presents is not a kind place. To what extent do you agree?

Keller teaches Paul far more about life that he ever does about music. To what extent do you agree?

Maestro illustrates the impossibility of escaping the past. To what extent do you agree?

To what extent has Paul learnt the lessons Keller wished to impart by the end of the novel?

This novel is about contrasting people and places. To what extent is this an accurate description of the novel?
The novel is about a boy and his music lessons. How accurately does this sum up the concerns of the novel, Maestro?

In exploring the gap between talent and genius the novel appears to endorse the Australian saying that ‘near enough is good enough’. What point do you think the writer makes?

‘That last “littleness” was impossible to bridge.’ The novel shows that the search for perfection is a foolish one ending in despair. Is that the message of the novel?

Paul’s indulgent parents are ultimately responsible for his obsessive nature, and ultimately his unhappiness. Do you agree?