Mr. Willy, a wealthy retired man in advanced middle age, lives alone in a house with a big window in Vancouver, after leaving his wife and daughters in England. The view from his window is quite remarkable, and he spends most of his time staring out of it. He no longer keeps much of a social life, having grown tired of the one he had in England. However, after seeing a haunting spectral shape in his living room that told him people without a connection to other humans or to God are meaningless, Mr. Willy decides to once again let others into his life. Meanwhile, unknown to Mr. Willy, another man watches him through his big window. After developing an acquaintanceship with his investment broker Mr. Wardho, the broker begins to invite Mr. Willy to social events. The first few he refuses, but he eventually gives in and decides to go to a bridge party. Mr. Willy becomes integrated into Mr. Wardho's social circle, attending a variety of parties and getting to know people. After a while, he feels obliged to throw a party himself. He invites a number of people over and they all have a good time, although one of Mr. Wardho's relatives notices that Mr. Willy looks a little sad and lonely. Everyone compliments Mr. Willy on the view from his window. After the party, Mr. Willy finds one of his guests' purses. He sets it on the table, then goes to sit in the living room. Meanwhile, the man who had been watching him through his window, a convicted robber, decides that now is the best time to strike. He carries a weapon and sneaks inside through an unlocked door. Right as he is about to strike, he notices his reflection in the mirror and falters. Mr. Willy sees him as well. Additionally, the phone begins to ring. The combination of these things frighten the robber, and he runs off. Mr. Willy yells after him, shaken by the near-death experience. He answers the phone, finding out that it is the woman who forgot her purse there. After giving a curt response, Mr. Willy goes to call the police. He is still thinking about how he had almost died and how he still lacks human connection or religious faith, and resolves to break the internal barrier that is keeping him from these things.