Illinois

The events of the story generally take place in different places in the state of Illinois. Neal lived in Chicago, he temporarily attended church in Naperville, and he attended therapy in River Forest. This setting does not appear to have a significant bearing on the overall narrative and themes, but the state shares certain biographical connections with David Foster Wallace, who lived there as child and for part of his adult life.

Dr. Gustafson’s Office

Much of the narrative revolves around Neal’s sessions with Dr. Gustafson. These sessions take place in Dr. Gustafson’s office in River Forest, Illinois. Neal hoped that Gustafson would be able to help overcome his fraudulent habits, but he soon concluded that Gustafson would not be able to do so. During the sessions, Neal recounted many anecdotes relating to his fraudulent habits.

Meditation Class

During the narrative, Neal recounts a meditation...