The arrival of a mysterious stranger in the decaying, drought-stricken town of Tourmaline acts as a catalyst for a spiritual and social crisis among its isolated inhabitants. The protagonist, a local lawman, observes the town's slow disintegration as the residents grapple with the arrival of a man who claims to be a water diviner. The narrative framework is largely filtered through the lawman's perspective, capturing the tension between secular resignation and the desperate search for salvation. The physical environment of the Australian outback serves as a harsh, unforgiving constraint that mirrors the internal stagnation of the characters.

Readers and critics often describe the work as a dense, lyrical meditation on the Australian landscape and the human condition. Discussion frequently centers on the author's ability to transform a desolate setting into a stage for profound existential questioning. Many highlight the stark contrast between the town's physical decay and the intense, often irrational spiritual hunger of its residents. The pacing is noted for being deliberate and contemplative, favoring character interiority over traditional plot progression. This book is widely regarded as a significant contribution to mid-century Australian literature, appreciated for its haunting atmosphere and thematic depth.