In a fractured, post-catastrophic future, the immortal protagonist Cinnabar navigates a world defined by shifting identities and the remnants of a collapsed civilization. Cinnabar exists as a recurring figure across various timelines and social strata, attempting to maintain a sense of self while the environment around him undergoes radical, often violent, transformations. He faces opposition from the entropic decay of society and the inherent instability of his own existence. The narrative utilizes a fragmented, episodic structure to mirror the disjointed nature of the world he inhabits.

This collection is regarded as a significant contribution to the speculative fiction of the late twentieth century, noted for its stylistic ambition and thematic depth. Readers often highlight the author's ability to maintain a consistent, haunting atmosphere despite the fragmented nature of the individual stories. The work is frequently analyzed for its commentary on the fragility of human constructs and the persistence of the individual in the face of societal collapse. The prose is characterized by a dense, evocative quality that demands careful attention from the reader to fully grasp the interconnected threads of the narrative. The collection stands as a testament to the author's skill in blending traditional science fiction tropes with more experimental, literary sensibilities.