Jon Wandel is one of America's greatest living poets. Professor Travis Fant is a struggling writer who is determined to become relevant by his thirty-fifth birthday-- or else abandon the craft altogether. When the reclusive Wandel emerges from a self-inflicted exile and arrives in Fant's hometown, a golden and gloriously sinful opportunity arises, bringing with it a decision that will impact much more than the fate of Fant's career.