The Protagonist

The protagonist’s name is never stated in the novel. He is a Caucasian male who recently graduated from college. He has moved to the city of Chicago in order to begin his life as an adult. He works as a journalist for a Catholic newspaper, and he lives in an apartment on Chicago’s north side. He is highly fascinated by Chicago in general, as well as by the lives and personalities of other residents in the apartment building. He quickly befriends the superintendent Mr. Pawlowsky, and Pawlowsky’s dog Edward.

The protagonist lives in Chicago for about 15 months. He spends much of his free time roaming and exploring the city. He very much enjoys playing basketball with other young men on a nearby outdoor basketball court. He is also a fan of baseball and occasionally attends White Sox games. One day, the protagonist meets a...