Richard Tull, a struggling novelist consumed by professional envy, attempts to orchestrate the downfall of his wildly successful best friend and rival, Gwyn Barry. As Richard grapples with his own creative stagnation, he descends into a spiral of petty sabotage and increasingly desperate schemes to undermine Barry's reputation. The narrative, presented with a biting and cynical tone, tracks Richard's transition from literary resentment to the pursuit of professional violence. He must navigate the constraints of a London literary scene that rewards mediocrity while his own life unravels under the weight of his obsession.

This work is widely regarded as a quintessential example of the author's mid-career style, characterized by its linguistic density and misanthropic humor. Critics often highlight the novel's relentless focus on the absurdity of the literary world and the corrosive nature of professional jealousy. Readers frequently note the sharp contrast between the two protagonists, which serves to amplify the central themes of mediocrity versus success. The narrative's cynical outlook and intricate prose style are consistently cited as defining features that demand close attention from the reader.