A taxonomy of metamorphosis unfolds as poems shift and reform, embodying mythic figures and exploring the fluidity of identity. Hittinger's collection invites readers to inhabit diverse skins, from Wonder Woman and the kangaroo woman to Houdini and a seductive river dolphin man. The poems navigate traditional forms and experimental narratives, weaving lyrics and dramatic monologues to explore resonant modern mythologies.

Matthew Hittinger's Skin Shift is recognized for its inventive approach to poetic form and its engagement with myth. The collection is noted for its ambitious scope, weaving together disparate figures and narratives into a cohesive exploration of transformation. Readers and critics have pointed to the book's ability to blend traditional lyrical elements with experimental techniques, creating a unique reading experience. The poems are often praised for their imaginative leaps and their capacity to make ancient mythologies feel immediate and relevant to contemporary life.