In 'Traveling Sprinkler,' readers reacquaint themselves with Paul Chowder, the contemplative poet from 'The Anthologist.' Now at fifty-five, Paul grapples with the strings of his well-worn heart and an artistic block. As Roz, his beloved ex-girlfriend, slips further away, embroiled in a new romance, Paul shelves his poetic ambitions for the strum of acoustic guitar strings, aspiring to songwriting. From Quaker meetings to musings on America's drone wars, Paul's journey is a tapestry of daily musings, musical composition, and lingering love, all woven with the finesse of Baker's unconventional narrative.