The Fisherman

The narrative finally returns to the present. Upon concluding his tale for Abe and Dan, Howard seems “relieved,” as if a “burden” has now passed from him. Leaving the café in the pouring rain, Abe and Dan agree that the story was “crazy,” but Abe never got the sense that Howard was lying. He is also disturbed by inexplicable “memories” of the Esopus Valley, which he is sure Howard never mentioned. Despite Howard’s warnings, Dan remains determined to fish at Dutchman’s Creek, so the two friends follow their map through normal-looking neighborhoods and come to a marsh that is almost hidden by dense underbrush, trees, and tall grass. As they wait in the car for a break in the rain, Abe confronts Dan about his knowledge of the creek, disputing his contention that he read about it in Evers’s book. Dan angrily exits the car, and Abe follows. Abe sights a finger of the creek, which looks eerily black. The creek proper is about 30 feet wide, but the roar of its rapids makes it sound much bigger, possibly owing to the unique acoustics of the valley.

Upon catching up to Dan, Abe sees that he has already cast his line in the water, and he follows suit.