Am I an elitist? This question occupies the thoughts of Melanie Dvorak, a liberal political columnist living in Boston. Approaching middle age in 1999, Melanie is in good health, is financially secure, and has an eccentric yet loyal husband. Yet she worries about losing credibility with her readership and feels guilty about her social status. A violent encounter in public gives Melanie notoriety and legal trouble but not fame on her own terms. Coping with her emotional issues leads to conflicts among her friends and unexpected complications. As the 20th Century ends, will a new millennium bring a new Melanie?