American Buffalo Study Guide

The play opens with Don, owner of Don's Resale Shop, and Bob, his "gofer," discussing Bob's presence in the shop. It becomes apparent that Bob was supposed to be watching someone at his or her home. He left his post because the person hadn't come out, and Bob thought maybe they had left through the back door. Don is upset. The store-owner tells Bob that they had a business deal, and his reason for giving up on the job isn't good enough. Don tells Bob that action counts, not intentions, that action talks and bullshit walks. Bob tells Don that he's sorry, and Don replies that he's not mad at him. (read more)