As he confronts the physical decline of his own body, the protagonist reflects on the moral and creative choices that have defined his existence. David Meredith, the central figure, navigates the final stages of his life while grappling with the weight of his past actions and the inevitable approach of death. The narrative operates as a meditative, introspective account, examining the tension between artistic ambition and the demands of personal integrity. Through a non-linear exploration of memory, the text scrutinizes the failures and triumphs of a life lived under the scrutiny of public and private expectations.

This work is widely regarded as a poignant conclusion to Johnston's semi-autobiographical trilogy, offering a stark and honest look at the end of a life. Critics often highlight the author's ability to maintain a detached yet deeply personal tone while dissecting his own character's flaws. The narrative is frequently praised for its unflinching examination of the creative spirit under the pressure of physical decay. Readers often find the prose to be both melancholic and intellectually rigorous, cementing its status as a significant contribution to Australian literature.