F.X. Enderby, a reclusive poet, finds his quiet life shattered when he becomes a primary suspect in a murder investigation, forcing him into a desperate flight to Tangier. Enderby attempts to navigate his new reality as a hotel barman while grappling with the persistent threat of exposure and the intrusion of his past. He is opposed by both the authorities investigating the crime and a mysterious figure who possesses dangerous knowledge regarding the singer's death. The narrative utilizes a cynical, observational framework to track Enderby's attempts to maintain his artistic integrity amidst the chaos of his flight. The world is defined by the stark contrast between the claustrophobic tension of his London life and the disorienting, sun-drenched atmosphere of his Moroccan exile.

Readers and critics frequently note the acerbic wit and stylistic density that characterize Burgess's prose in this installment. Discussion often centers on the evolution of Enderby as a character who remains stubbornly detached from the world despite the mounting external pressures. Many reviewers highlight the effective atmosphere of the Tangier setting, which serves as both a refuge and a trap for the protagonist. The balance between the central mystery and the character-driven exploration of the creative process is a frequent point of analysis. Readers often appreciate the uncompromising tone, though some find the narrative's cynicism challenging to navigate.