THE SOUNDS OF SOUTH AFRICA-Confronting the end of Apartheid and the beginning of AIDS covers the years 1988 to 1992, when the country is in uncertain transition out of Apartheid and the author also personally experiences the AIDS crisis. Flashbacks reveal incidents in previous years, when Pieter becomes the author's life partner. The story includes Pieter's spiritual growth and its influence on the author. During his first visit to Pieter from New York in 1980, the author hopes to hear the sounds of African animals and birds. Later, other sounds occur. Gunfire erupts from the street below their apartment. In 1988, Pieter tests positive for HIV. They expect him to live several years and be saved by new drugs. Pieter is well, and he continues his job with South African Airways as Chief Steward. The author's contacts from New York in theatrical work result in interesting contracts. They are optimistic and deny a tragic future. They return to the author's apartment in New York for Christmas. Violence increases in South Africa. With the economy failing, they experience financial difficulties. The author goes back to work in New York for two months and learns more about the AIDS crisis. Pieter becomes seriously ill, but he survives. He is determined to continue working, although the airline refuses to let him fly and demotes him to an office job, with reduced salary. His case is the first to overturn that ruling. His full salary is restored. In 1990, the political situation gets worse. Nelson Mandela is released from prison. Violence escalates. Pieter experiences a bombing at the airport, and a car bomb explodes near the author's theatre. Their future is uncertain. Pieter becomes weaker. Three contracts give the author some financial stability. The contracts are completed and he devotes his time to caring for Pieter at home, which they both desire. With no assistance from Pieter's family, the author hires an aide to help him until Pieter's death. A final contract, friends, and a therapist help him cope. Pieter's estate, sale of the apartment and official documents are difficult because government offices are in chaos. Finally, the move back to New York City is completed, and the author is with good friends and in his apartment with their two cats from South Africa.