Tom Williams, later to be known as "Tennessee", an aspiring writer in his 20s, lives with his family in 1930s St. Louis. Caught between his overbearing mother and negligent father, Tom attempts to maintain peace in the family while also dealing with his depressed and antisocial sister. Struggling against the societal pressures and expectations of him, Tenn is determined to hone in on his artistic talent and achieve greatness.