The father's apprentice reports on his little protégé, to whom he not only imparted knowledge of Czech. The housekeeper recalls the student, the publisher remembers his greatest and most peculiar author. Colleagues describe the civil servant, and some of the many girlfriends give us a glimpse of his effect on women. There is also a report on the park visitor who sends a doll on a journey, thereby saving the world of a little girl. They all bring a personality to life, with their sparse gestures, their politeness, their smiles, and constant wonder.