The novel follows life of Claude Wheeler, a Nebraska native, searching for his purpose in life. We see Claude building friendships during his University years and these relationships interrupted when his father expands the family farm and Claude is obligated to leave university and operate part of the family farm. Once pinned to the farm, Claude marries Enid Royce, a childhood friend. His notions of love and marriage are quickly devastated. Finally we see Claude believing he has found a purpose in life beyond the drudgery of farming and marriage.