Argus, North Dakota

Argus, North Dakota is the primary narrative backdrop for the novel. Argus is a town located in the American West. Fidelis first arrives in the town at the end of Chapter 1, "The Last Link." He has plans of traveling to Seattle, but his sausage money only gets him as far as Argus. He does not realize that he will spend the rest of his life in this location, but soon becomes a part of the community after discovering the local butcher shop.

Over the years, Fidelis and Eva develop a life for themselves in Argus. Their life is predominantly built around their business, Waldvogel's Meats, and Fidelis's singing group.

Delphine grew up in Argus with her father, Roy. She returns to Argus at the novel's start, after spending some time away, traveling with her vaudeville act.

This location acts as the spatial foundation for the entirety...