Erik and Phillip are friends and rivals, both trying to make it as writers. Mailing off their manuscripts together, their friendship is tested when Erik?s is rejected as lacking in talent, while Phillip?s is accepted, and practically overnight he becomes a major name on the Norwegian cultural scene. Six months later, Erik and his friends arrive to bring Phillip home after long-term treatment at a psychiatric hospital. Writing is the last thing on Phillip?s mind, but Erik is continuing his literary aspirations. How did it all get to this?