Summary

In “A Magic Egg,” Carlisle’s agent Annika calls to say that “a ballet company in England” wants her to choreograph their upcoming Firebird production (104). Although she knows the job could be a breakthrough, Carlisle feels overwhelmed. She books her flight to New York, determined to work on the Firebird concept while traveling. However, when she puts on the Firebird music, she feels frustrated.

Carlisle talks to Isabel, who tells her about playing a monster and a Maiden in various productions of Firebird. Her experiences compel Carlisle to rethink the score and plot. They get into a discussion about the past. Isabel assures Carlisle Robert “didn’t cheat” on her and wanted to be a part of Carlisle’s life (112). They talk about Bank Street, too. Isabel seems to want Carlisle to give the apartment to James.

On the...