This biography chronicles the formative years of the celebrated poet and novelist Robert Graves, focusing on the period from his birth in 1895 through the tumultuous events of World War I and its immediate aftermath until 1926. Richard Perceval Graves, drawing on extensive family archives and personal correspondence, details Robert Graves's early life, his experiences as a soldier in the trenches, and the profound impact these events had on his literary development and personal psyche. The narrative explores his complex relationships, his struggles with trauma, and the intellectual and artistic milieu that shaped his early career, culminating in his departure from England for a new life in Mallorca.

This biography is recognized for its thorough research and intimate portrayal of Robert Graves's early life. Critics have noted the author's deep access to family materials, which allows for a nuanced understanding of Graves's formative experiences and their lasting influence on his work. The book is considered an essential resource for scholars and readers interested in the development of one of the 20th century's significant literary figures. It provides a comprehensive look at the period that forged Graves's identity as both a man and a writer.