Alix briefly meets an accomplished artist at a coworker's dinner party and subsequently sits for a painting that becomes well-known. But Alix is neither a one-trick pony nor an ingénue; she's 47 and embarking on her own painting and teaching journeys while starting her life over with her young son.

This collection of narrative poetry spans years and POVs-including Alix; her son, Sam; her ex; and her colleague, Meghan-and explores what it means to pursue artistic passion, the personal meanings we overlay onto art and artists in a society not conducive to art-making, ambition at midlife, the indirect route to so-called overnight success, and more.

Includes Questions for Discussion, Reflection, or Journaling as well as Additional Reading Suggestions.