I think I've already complained/discussed my difficulty nailing down the first chapter of Rain, but I'd love to revisit the subject.

Here are all the elements I've had to artfully stuff into the first (now 18) pages: busy; loves his job; loves his co-workers; gay; emotional distance from family; befriends unpopular, nearly unlikable instructor; friend is dying; Buddhist; eccentric; description of office; set in New York City; old hometown. I'm confident I'm forgetting something.

So after probably seven rewrites, I think I'm pretty close. I'm know some of the elements on the list are covered less than adequately, but that's where the critique groups come in. Usually, that is.

I've brought this chapter in twice before, so bringing it in a third time makes me feel like I may be abusing the group's patience. Whether or not I ultimately decide to send it out to the other members will depend upon their feedback. I'm even hesitant to ask about it. They are a kind group though. I'll need to keep that in mind.