Chapter 1 begins with an intense argument between protagonist Antonio Bernal and his apartment manager, a Korean man whom Antonio knows as Hwang. Their dispute is exacerbated by the fact that neither man speaks fluent English. Antonio reflects that this problem is due to the nature of Los Angeles, where it is possible for someone like himself to speak his native language, Spanish, most of the time.

The men are arguing because Antonio is being evicted that very night. Antonio notices his glasses in the mirror, and this reminds him of his intellectual distinction. In Guatemala 10 years ago he was a student, but now others jokingly call him “professor” because of the contrast between his educated appearance and his current economic plight.

Antonio pleads with Hwang, saying he will be homeless because of Hwang’s actions. Hwang tells Antonio the police will be called to expedite the eviction. As the dispute drags on, neighbors gather in the corridors of the apartment building. Antonio is aware that in this poor and often dangerous area, a disaster or spectacle is the only thing that can really draw the neighbors together. His dispute with Hwang thus ranks alongside sordid and tragic events like a death, an accident, a domestic dispute, or a fire.