As Kent drives along California coast, he recollects recent events in his life: dropping out of college, leaving behind his establishment-oriented roommate and square parents; but above all, the suicide of his passive girlfriend Bobbi after he dumped her. He's so filled with guilt he crashes his car, but isn't hurt. He then meets journalist Kristine who is interviewing American college students; they sleep together, but he wants to move on. He then meets experienced divorcée Julie; they get along well and she finds him a job and a place to live. But Kent's search for meaning in his life urges him to move on once again.