A narrator revisits his past loves and memories in the American Midwest, framed by the improvisational spirit of jazz. The stories, titled after Keith Jarrett's songs, explore themes of memory, identity, and universal human experience. The protagonist, drawing parallels to Machado de Assis and Proust, reconstructs past affections within the backdrop of his youth, creating a narrative that is both introspective and retrospective.

The collection is noted for its sophisticated literary approach, drawing comparisons to established masters of memory and narrative. Its structure, inspired by jazz improvisation and the memorialist traditions of writers like Proust and Machado de Assis, allows for a deep dive into personal history and emotional landscapes. While explicitly framed as exploring gay experiences, the work is recognized for its broader appeal, touching on universal themes of love, loss, and self-discovery. The Handbook of Latin American Studies highlights its impressive narrative accomplishments.