Set in Atlanta in the 1950's, a textile factory owner insists on hiring an ever-patient chauffeur for his aging head-strong mother. The Jewish woman and her African American driver eventually build a relationship over many years.

William Bloom, is a young man who never really knew his now dying father, Edward - outside of the tall tales his dad told him about growing up. During Edward's last days William and his wife Josephine hold a bedside vigil next to the old man as he recollects elaborate memories of his yourth. Still doubting the legends and folklore, William makes a journey to meet a mysterious woman from whom Edward had bought property.