Chapters 1 - 2 Summary

1. A Blur of Rushing Images

Chris Nielsen usually goes to the movies with his son, Ian. Fortunately, this night, he is alone. As a screenwriter, Chris goes to the movies two times a week and usually Ian accompanies him, but tonight, Ian appears in a school play. Chris is relieved that he is alone in the car when he is hit by a car and spins into the path of an oncoming van. Then there is only pain and cold and whispering voices. Chris can feel a different pain and knows that it belongs to his wife, Ann. It is her agony over his injuries. Chris's mind moves from his current state of injury to a peaceful Sunday evening at home, then he is abruptly brought back. More feelings and sensations and the realization that he is dying. A voice tells...