Emily’s insular poetic world is rocked when Sue introduces her to Sam Bowles, a newspaper editor with a strong interest in publishing women.

Her participation in an Amherst baking contest gives Emily a taste of fame and celebrity, but she questions the benefits

When she learns that Sam plans to publish her poem, Emily embraces being his latest discovery while attending one of Sue’s salons.

Things don't go as planned when Emily tries to express her gratitude to Sam during a night at the opera.