The Ballad of the Sad Cafe

Ryder College music professor Mr. Brook coordinates the arrival of Madame Zilensky, a new member of his department. He largely keeps to himself, uninterested in spending time with his colleagues. Though no one knows her personally, Madame Zilensky is a famed musician, and her hiring is a big accomplishment for Mr. Brook. 

A week before the semester begins, Mr. Brook picks Madame Zilensky up at the train station, along with her three young sons and their Finnish maid. They only have Madame Zilensky’s manuscripts with them; the rest of their luggage was left behind when they switched trains. As they leave, Madame Zilensky flies into a panic, claiming she left her metronome at the previous station and needs to return to get it. Mr. Brook manages to calm her down and promises to buy her a new one.

Madame Zilensky and her family move into the house next door to Mr. Brook. Mr. Brook finds it odd that they barely furnish the house, leaving it empty and unlived in. Madame Zilensky proves to be a great teacher, and the school is very happy. At night she works on her 12th symphony; Mr. Brook feels as though she never sleeps.