An aging writer sits in the sun outside of his house, contemplating the beauty of nearby wilted geraniums as he plucks them. His wife arrives with a guest, a man who works in publishing and hopes to publish some of the writer's work. They engage in conversation, and the writer attempts to provoke the guest into an argument on the nature of publishing. The guest refuses to engage in the argument, frustrating the writer. His wife placates him by giving him the new pet they've bought for him. The writer realizes the little creature resembles his father and recalls the coal mines from his past that continue to haunt him. He calls for champagne to celebrate. His wife fetches a bottle and refuses the help of their guest, deftly opening it herself. The writer cheers, as does the wife, and they drink their champagne. The writer settles back in the sun and realizes how unprepared he is for death.