The Ball at the Fairgrounds

The story takes place in two worlds: the real and the surreal.. Set in Boston and New York City the story follows the life of a young man who does not learn and grow wise from life’s experiences. Instead he grasps at the price of everything oblivious to their spiritual value including love and friendship.. On a job search in New York City he rests on a bench in Central Park where a scene is played out that portends the future. A clown comes down a path with puppet clowns in a red canvas bag. When balloons carried by the clown burst near a little girl a puppet clown jumps out of the bag and does a dance with the girl. Clowns are to have an important role in the young man’s future as well as a person with a bow tie who constantly stalks him. Another important image is that of the dancing couple in the Renoir painting Bal a Bougival which exemplifies the magical essence and beauty of real love.