The neighborhood bar had emptied out early. Only a group of three remained. The conversation kept everyone from realizing the passage of time. But soon they would leave, and the hour would become clear; always soon, always the hours.

The windows had fogged up from the cold. And as the fire smoldered, the first rays began to appear on the horizon. Always the rays. Always the rays come to illuminate the horizon.

[Excerpt from the text on the back cover of the edition]