Summary

The first section of the novella is titled "Part One: A Lick of Night." The narrative is told through alternating perspectives titled "The Boys," "Dad," and "Crow." The narrative begins with the boys detailing feathers in their bed. The narrative shifts to the Dad's perspective. He reveals that his wife has died days earlier and he is not sure of what to do. He drinks, smokes, and stays up late. People visit offering their condolences. At night he hears a noise outside and wonders if it is someone trying to break in. At the door he finds a crow, which lifts him into the air and the says that he will leave him only when he is no longer needed. Crow insists that Dad greet him. When Dad does, the bird departs The Dad is able to sleep for the first time...