How Late It Was, How Late

Sammy receives three letters, one of which is his giro (a welfare or unemployment benefit). He is cautious about revealing his sight loss to others in his neighborhood because it is an area with lots of criminal activity, and he fears being taken advantage of. Sammy decides to go to the post office to cash his benefits. While waiting for the post office to open, Sammy reflects on his life and the challenges he faces due to his blindness. He contemplates getting back into shape and laments the absence of cigarettes to accompany his coffee. He also constantly remembers the lyrics of country songs that reflect his state of mind.

As Sammy prepares to leave for the post office, he carefully plans his route by considering the layout of the neighborhood. He eventually sets out on his journey, using his white stick for guidance. He successfully arrives at the post office, buys some tobacco, and receives his benefits. Sammy then proceeds to the local chemist to buy sunglasses, as he hopes that they will help him to blend in and signal his sight loss to others. The salesperson at the shop helps him to buy a pair of sunglasses.

Sammy heads to the bus stop to catch a ride to the Department of Social Services (DSS) Central Medical for an appointment related to his vision loss.