This biography investigates the formative years of the pioneering modern dancer Martha Graham, tracing her artistic development and the influences that shaped her groundbreaking choreographic style. Armitage, a contemporary and associate of Graham, draws upon personal interactions and historical context to illuminate the period when Graham established her unique movement vocabulary and philosophical approach to dance. The work aims to provide an intimate portrait of the artist's early career, detailing the challenges and triumphs that laid the foundation for her enduring legacy in the performing arts.

This biography is regarded as an insightful, though potentially subjective, account of Martha Graham's early career, penned by an associate. Merle Armitage's close relationship with Graham offers a unique, insider's perspective on her formative years and artistic evolution. The work is valued for its detailed exploration of her choreographic development and the context of early modern dance. It provides a foundational understanding for those interested in Graham's profound impact on the art form.