Set against the rich forests and vistas of the Pacific Northwest in Washington state, we observe the often quiet ebbs and flows of the life of Robert Grainier. Born of parents he can't recall, and destined for a life of laborious, early-20th-century work building railways and logging, he finds his true purpose upon meeting Gladys. Robert and Gladys soon decide that they will build a quiet life together next to a beautiful and secluded stream, and they will have a child together. Due to the long absences of Robert for his work, and local work at the time not being lucrative enough they both dream of using their modest land to build a sawmill and have a closer family life. Tragedy ensues while Robert is away working and saving money, and the struggle of meaning and solitude returns as he waits for signs and searches for the that which made him whole, again.