The History of Sound Puts Itself on Mute
Mescal portrays Lionel Worthing, a young farmer from Kentucky, who unexpectedly discovers he has a stunning voice that earns him a spot at the New England Conservatory of Music in 1917. There, he crosses paths with David White, a sophisticated music student from Europe, who shares Lionel’s deep appreciation for traditional folk songs. It quickly becomes clear that they share a special bond. Later, when David, known for his exceptional musical memory, encourages Lionel to sing an obscure tune he hasn’t heard before, the crowd is captivated by Lionel’s rendition of “Silver Dagger.” David, moved both by the song and the singer, responds with a few melodic chords on the piano, then sits back, momentarily speechless. They frequent a local bar where this heartfelt performance takes place.