Simon Galves is a new writing instructor in a small college town. He settles into a dull but peaceful life until he is caught in a sudden storm and is struck by lightning. Remarkably, he survives with some injuries, and even more remarkably, the strike uncovers a compulsive desire to play the piano. Through flashbacks, we learn of Simon's troubled childhood and his strained relationship with his distant mother, Helen. Through his piano obsession, he falls in love with Jenna, a music professor and pianist. Shortly after her death, Simon learns the truth about his mother.