Maysam, an Iranian writer, visits America after a three-month anticipation of meeting his online friend, Mr. Robert Hawley. At a dinner hosted by the Hawleys, Maysam faces uncomfortable comments about his nationality and religion, leading to feelings of isolation. Although he initially declines offers of wine due to his dietary restrictions, he eventually succumbs to peer pressure and drinks, gaining a strange confidence. In a moment of honesty, he admits to Mr. Hawley that he doesn’t actually like Hemingway or his stories, which shocks the guests. As Mr. Hawley reacts by burning his own books in a fit of despair, Maysam plays the piano, laughing and playing loudly, until the chaos calms down and he quietly exits into the night, leaving behind a tense and emotional scene.
By Bill Tope & Sam Kandej
