About The Burden of Matter Donna and Alan, in their early twenties, fall in love in Washington, D.C., as World War II draws to a close. Alan is compelled to write a novel that will expose his stepfather as his father's murderer. Donna hopes to marry him and escape her dysfunctional home. They pursue an intense affair. Prior involvements, family strife, and Alan's meager income as a jazz musician strain the relationship. Donna's longing to marry intensifies,...