Nick Flynn is a young writer trying to find his way in life, grappling with the memory of his late mother and the absence of his father. He begins working at a homeless shelter where, by a twist of fate, he encounters his estranged father, Jonathan, a self-proclaimed great writer who is now homeless. Jonathan's egotistical and erratic behavior clashes with Nick, leading to tumultuous interactions that force Nick to confront his own struggles with identity, family legacy, and forgiveness.

As Nick navigates the challenges of his life, he finds himself increasingly affected by his father's presence. Their strained relationship oscillates between moments of connection and conflict, illustrating the impact of Jonathan's mental instability on both their lives. Through these encounters, Nick begins to reflect on his own aspirations and choices. The story explores the themes of reconciliation and self-discovery as Nick tries to understand the man who abandoned him while also searching for his own place in the world amidst chaos and uncertainty.