Rudolf is a Czech violinist living in Sweden who is not exceptionally talented at playing the violin. Rudolf travels to Iceland to perform around the country, and although the turnout for his shows is not fantastic, the listeners pay. One night, Rudolf is sailing between cities when a violent storm erupts. At first he thinks all is lost because the nearest harbor is miles away, but then he sees a lighthouse and begins traveling towards it. Next to the lighthouse is an old man who calls out to Rudolf that he is welcome. The old man takes the violinist in and serves him dinner as the storm continues to rage. Rudolf learns that the old man was born and spent his life on this island, and his mother was the only woman he ever knew. He spends a lot of time reading, particularly the bible. Rudolf takes his violin out to play for the old man, and the old man does not know what the object is. The old man tells Rudolf he has heard of music but never "seen" it. Rudolf informs that man that you hear music, then proceeds to play; it is the best and most passionate performance he has ever given. When he finishes playing, the old man says, "Yes, that is true."