Machisu is an artist. He has never achieved the success to which he believes he is entitled. Regardless of this, he is constantly attempting to succeed. Sachiko, his wife, continues to support him despite difficulties. Machisu, the sole son of a wealthy collector, possesses a childlike enthusiasm for painting. The little boy's admiration for a great artist buddy encourages him to dream of becoming a painter himself. As a young man, Machisu, a poor loner, is able to attend art school using money gained through labour. He is introduced to an uncommon world of risk-taking inventiveness, but also has his first taste of severe criticism from a dealer. Encouragement comes in the form of gorgeous clerk Sachiko, who is confident that she understands him better than anybody else. Marriage is quickly followed by the birth of a daughter, as love and optimism motivate Machisu to deepen his commitment to his work...