Summary

Chapter 4.1 returns to timeline number one. Amy has matriculated to Barnard and moved into a New York City apartment with older roommates. Amy eventually tells Ferguson that she needs a break from their relationship, and Ferguson is deeply disappointed. Ferguson begins applying to colleges, and he becomes focused on Columbia University after reading an amusing poem in the student literary magazine that begins with the line, “A steady fuck is good for you” (382). He applies and is accepted to Columbia. During his final months living in Montclair, Ferguson works as a sports reporter for the local Montclair Times. The editor-in-chief, Edward Imhoff, is generally rude but tacitly approves of Ferguson’s work. Ferguson signs his articles with his initials and last name, A.I. Ferguson. Ferguson enjoys the work immensely. Shortly before Ferguson leaves for college, Ferguson’s father closes his store and...