Part 2/8:
In an attempt to escape his troubles, he encounters various experts who provide disparate theories on dreams—none yielding any tangible solutions. His dismal financial situation exacerbates his plight when he is evicted from his apartment after failing to pay rent. As he wanders the streets, his sole comfort comes in the form of a crepe from a street vendor, and his thoughts drift to Hua-er, a girl he harbors feelings for, whose beauty captivated him during her performances years earlier.
Descent into Desperation