Gabriel Conroy and his wife Gretta attend a party given by his two aunts where he awkwardly mingles with the guests. During the meal's toast, Gabriel discusses the gift of hospitality and his native country of Ireland. Gabriel and Gretta return home and Gretta confesses to Gabriel her memory of a past love that was sparked by the party's music. Gabriel ends the night gazing out at the snow and reflecting on the state of his own life and that of Ireland.
