'Character is destiny,' wrote Heraclitus-and in this collection of four unforgettable stories, we meet people struggling to understand themselves and the unexpected turns their lives have taken. In 'Accountant,' a quintessential company man becomes obsessed with the phenomenal success of a reckless childhood friend. 'Batorsag and Szerelem' tells the story of a boy's fascination with the mysterious life and invented language of his brother, a math prodigy. In 'City of Broken Hearts,' a divorced father tries to fathom the patterns of modern relationships. And in 'The Palace Thief,' a history teacher at an exclusive boarding school reflects on the vicissitudes of a lifetime connection with a student scoundrel. A remarkable achievement by one of America's finest writers, this brilliant volume reveals the moments of insight that illuminate everyday lives.