Janet and Edward are an American married couple living in Turkey. They’ve got there because Edward is a writer working on a book, which Janet doesn’t understand the point of. She longs for her home in Albuquerque, drinks too much, argues with Edward, and joins an amateur theatrical group. She doesn’t understand what he’s writing nor why he’s writing it, which makes him constantly annoyed at her. He often wonders why on Earth they decided to get married. Janet introduces Edward to a friend from her theater group, Reginald. Reginald and Janet go on an excursion to the cliffs, during which she has a near-death experience. She returns to Albuquerque while Edward stays in Turkey, finishing his book. Their marriage is practically over. His book finally comes out, and it’s criticized for being too lofty and sensual. Edward laments the world’s cruel treatment of the artist.