Set in a rundown neighborhood    of Manhattan in 1936, the novel explores a five-day alcoholic binge. Don Birnam, a binge drinker mostly of rye, fancies himself as a writer.
Located in a deteriorated neighborhood of Manhattan in 1936, the novel explores a five-day episode of heavy indulgence. Don Birnam, a heavy drinker with a penchant for rye, perceives himself as an aspiring writer.