This collection investigates the private correspondence of Evelyn Waugh to reveal the multifaceted personality behind his public literary persona. Editor Mark Amory compiles a curated selection of letters written by Waugh throughout his life, providing a chronological framework that documents his development as a writer, husband, and father. By organizing these primary documents, the book argues that Waugh's private communications offer essential context for understanding the wit and social observations found in his published novels.

Critics and scholars frequently cite this volume as a vital resource for understanding the nuances of Waugh's character beyond his satirical fiction. Readers often note that the prose remains consistently engaging, reflecting the same sharp wit present in his novels.