Drew Larson is a writer who has published a number of short stories in various magazines, most notably The New Yorker. He has made three attempts to write a novel in the past, though all have failed. On one occasion, he nearly burned his house down while trying to destroy the manuscript.

While walking to a deli, Drew gets the idea to write a western novel. He envisions a young man holding a girl hostage in a saloon out of jealousy. He quickly imagines the other characters, including a sheriff with a limp and the young man’s wealthy, protective father. Drew shares the idea with his wife, Lucy, when he gets home. He wants to write the book at his father’s cabin in TR-90, which hasn’t been rented out since the death of its caretaker, Old Bill Colson. Lucy is concerned about the psychological effect that another novel attempt might have on Drew, but Drew assures her that the ideas are so clear that it will feel like “taking dictation.” He needs to work from the cabin to get a head start on the writing.

Drew visits his mentor, Al Stamper, who has recently stepped down from teaching after being diagnosed with pancreatic cancer.