When I spotted this article in today’s News & Observer, started reading, and realized I would not be able to attend, I was sorely disappointed.

I have wanted to get close enough to possibly try this stuff, a “gelatinous fish that’s been soaked in lye and water for days and gives off an odor described as having the ability to peel wallpaper off a wall” since I encountered the description a couple of years ago. One article suggested heavy doses of mashed potatoes with, or in lieu of, the portion of fish. Wallpaper paste might be even better if the author’s comments on its blistering smell are anything close to accurate.

Even more than the gastrointestinal experience, I regret having to miss the entertainment. “…one of the evening’s specialties is a performance by the Scandinavian Lutefisk Ensemble, a group of six men whose playlist consists entirely of songs about how terrible the dish is.” Darn.