The World to Come

In 1856, Abigail and Dyer live a secluded life as farmers in Schoharie County, New York. They are deeply affected by the tragic loss of their young daughter, Nellie, which has left a void in their lives and a strain on their marriage.

A new couple, Tallie and Finney, moves in next door, and Abigail is immediately drawn to Tallie. This marks the beginning of an unexpected and profound friendship between the two women, providing Abigail with a sense of companionship that she has been missing.

During their friendship, Abigail shares her feelings of discontentment with her marriage to Dyer, revealing it is based more on practicality than love. In turn, Tallie confides in Abigail about the difficulties she faces with her controlling husband, Finney.

For Abigail's birthday, Tallie gifts her a long-desired atlas, emphasizing the bond that has developed between them. This gesture signifies not only a deepening friendship but also a shared escape from their respective marital issues.

After the birthday celebration, Tallie encounters a violent storm on her way home. The near-fatal experience leaves her shaken, prompting Finney to take her away to recuperate, which temporarily interrupts her visits to Abigail.

Once spring arrives, Tallie resumes her visits with Abigail, reaffirming their deepening connection. As they spend time together, the emotional intensity between them grows, revealing an undeniable desire.

Their friendship blossoms into a romantic affair when Abigail and Tallie kiss, expressing their mutual feelings. They begin secretly meeting, which brings both joy and turmoil to Abigail's life as her marriage becomes increasingly strained.

As Abigail becomes emotionally invested in her relationship with Tallie, Dyer notices her absence and grows increasingly concerned. Meanwhile, Tallie's husband, Finney, becomes aware of her frequent disappearances, leading to mounting tensions.

Finney invites Abigail and Dyer to dinner, during which he awkwardly brings up the topic of their deceased child. Abigail notices strange bruises on Tallie's neck, heightening her fear for her friend's safety amid unsettling behavior from Finney.

After an uncomfortable dinner, Tallie goes missing for a week. Abigail's search leads her to an empty house and a bloody kerchief, igniting her suspicions of foul play amid a backdrop of growing dread about Tallie's safety.

Abigail receives a letter from Tallie, revealing that she has moved 85 miles away to Skaneateles. The news strikes Abigail hard, intensifying her worry and longing for their lost connection.

Determined not to lose Tallie, Abigail insists on visiting her despite Dyer's reluctance. This journey symbolizes Abigail's commitment to confronting her feelings and the evolving dynamics of her life.

Upon reaching Tallie's new location, Abigail learns the heartbreaking news of her death, which Finney attributes to diphtheria. This revelation shatters Abigail, as she grapples with the loss of her beloved friend.

In a series of flashbacks, Abigail recalls intimate moments shared with Tallie, juxtaposed with memories of Finney holding Tallie before her collapse. These haunting recollections reveal the complexity of their relationship and the impact of Finney's control.

Upon returning to the farm, Abigail and Dyer continue their chores, yet the emotional chasm between them widens. To cope with her grief over Tallie and Nellie, Abigail imagines a future where she could confront Finney and envisions Tallie comforting her in the afterlife.