George Smith, a wealthy and isolated man, finds himself besieged by legal threats from his estranged family and anonymous harassment. Smith attempts to navigate a series of escalating personal crises while maintaining his eccentric lifestyle. His objective is to secure his autonomy and peace of mind against a world he perceives as predatory. The narrative follows his increasingly bizarre defensive maneuvers, culminating in the construction of a mausoleum as a sanctuary. The story is presented through a cynical lens that emphasizes the absurdity of Smith's social and financial entanglements.

Readers often note the distinct, rhythmic prose style that characterizes Donleavy's writing. Discussion frequently centers on the balance between the protagonist's pathetic circumstances and the biting wit used to describe his plight. Critics highlight the effectiveness of the atmosphere, which shifts between genuine tension and dark comedy. Many readers appreciate the focus on character development over traditional plot progression, finding the exploration of Smith's psyche to be the primary draw. The book is frequently cited for its ability to maintain a consistent tone of existential dread mixed with sharp social observation.