After living abroad for thirty-five years in India, Bangladesh, Italy, Greece, and other countries, John Walters returned to his home country, the United States, with his sons. When the youngest moved out, he found himself alone in a fourth floor apartment with a spectacular view. He dubbed his new home the aerie.

For some people solitude can be devastating, but for others it can provide a unique opportunity to maximize the creative experience. These scintillating and captivating essays trace the roots of artistic destiny, follow the intricate patterns of past relationships, and offer fascinating observations about writing, travel, literature, perseverance amidst adversity, optimism during a pandemic, and other topics.