This work investigates the evolution of the American art scene through the lens of Robert Rauschenberg's career and his interactions with the influential figures who defined the mid-20th century. Calvin Tomkins, a long-time staff writer for The New Yorker, utilizes his extensive access to the art world to document the shift from abstract expressionism to the diverse stylistic movements of the 1960s. The book argues that Rauschenberg's collaborative spirit and experimental approach served as a catalyst for the radical changes in contemporary art practice.

Critics and art historians frequently cite this work as a primary resource for understanding the social dynamics of the New York art scene during the mid-20th century. Readers often note the accessible, journalistic prose style that makes complex art historical developments clear for a general audience.