Shirley Falls, Maine

Shirley Falls is a small, declining town in Maine where the Burgess children grew up. Although Bob and Jim have long ago moved to New York, Susan still lives there and it becomes the setting for much of the story when Zach gets into legal trouble there. The town symbolizes many things in the lives of the Burgess brothers, including their past, their secrets, and their family dynamics. For Bob, it symbolizes his redemption and future.

New York, New York

Much of the story takes place in New York City, where both Bob and Jim now live. Specific settings include Park Slope, the Brooklyn neighborhood where Jim and Helen have an upscale home, and Manhattan, where both brothers work and Bob eventually moves. There is also mention of Montauk, Long Island, where Jim and Helen have a home.

Wilson, New York

Wilson is a small college...