This book investigates the historical evolution of human hostility as expressed through the medium of written correspondence. Donald Carroll, a writer and editor, compiles a collection of vitriolic letters spanning centuries to examine how individuals have historically articulated their grievances, insults, and declarations of hatred. The work argues that the written word has long served as a primary outlet for social conflict, providing a window into the changing norms of public and private discourse across different eras.

Readers often note the entertaining and often shocking nature of the historical documents presented in this collection. Experts highlight the book as a unique, albeit informal, look at the history of human conflict and social etiquette.