American Express Summary
James Salter

American Express Overview

"American Express" is a short story by American author James Salter. It was first published as part of Salter's 1988 short story collection, Dusk and Other Stories. "American Express" traces the friendship between two lawyers, Frank and Alan, as they work their way to successful careers. The first half of the story follows them through their work in New York City in the 1960's, while the second half describes their time on an extended European holiday years later. Through their relationship, the story explores themes like self-absorption, the nature of happiness, class disparity, and the passage of time.