college
years—where Andy goes on to excel at Yale and law school, while Melissa flunks
out of a series of "good schools." While Andy is off at war Melissa marries, but
her attachment to Andy remains strong and she continues to keep in touch as he
marries, becomes a successful attorney, gets involved in politics and,
eventually, is elected to the U.S. Senate. Meanwhile, her marriage in tatters,
Melissa dabbles in art and gigolos, drinks more than she should, and becomes
estranged from her children. Eventually she and Andy do become involved in a
brief affair, but it is really too late for both of them. However Andy's last
letter, written to her mother after Melissa's untimely death, makes it
eloquently clear how much they really meant, and gave to, each other over the
years—physically apart, perhaps, but spiritually as close as only true lovers
can be. Written by A. R. Gurney