A man finds himself entangled in a surreal series of encounters with historical and literary figures in the small Irish town of Dalkey. The protagonist, Mick Shaughnessy, attempts to navigate a reality where the laws of physics and theology are subject to the whims of eccentric geniuses and demonic entities. He faces opposition from the formidable De Selby, a scientist intent on destroying the world, and must contend with the unsettling presence of James Joyce, who is revealed to be alive and working in a local pub. The narrative employs a disjointed, satirical framework that mocks the conventions of the novel while exploring the boundaries of human knowledge and existence.

This work is widely regarded as a pinnacle of Irish absurdist literature, noted for its sharp wit and intellectual playfulness. Readers often highlight the seamless blending of high-concept philosophy with the mundane realities of small-town life. The narrative's refusal to adhere to traditional plot structures is frequently cited as both a challenge and a reward for the engaged reader. It remains a significant text for those interested in the evolution of metafiction and the legacy of twentieth-century experimental writing.