This collection investigates the professional and personal life of Oscar Hammerstein II through his own correspondence, revealing the creative processes and industry relationships that defined the American musical theater. Oscar Hammerstein II, a pivotal figure in 20th-century theater, authored these letters during his tenure as a lyricist and librettist for iconic productions. The text utilizes primary source documents to trace his collaborations with composers like Richard Rodgers and Jerome Kern. By examining his private communications, the book provides a framework for understanding the evolution of the Broadway musical and the business of entertainment during the mid-century era.

Scholars and theater historians frequently cite this collection as a vital resource for understanding the mechanics of musical theater composition. The prose is noted for its accessibility, offering both casual readers and academic researchers a clear window into the mind of a legendary artist.