This book investigates the psychological and physical absurdity inherent in the pursuit of golf by amateur players. Richard Armour, a prolific writer and academic, utilizes his personal history as a self-described "hooked slicer" to construct a humorous framework for the sport. He examines the gap between the golfer's aspirations and their actual performance, arguing that the game is less a test of skill and more a test of character and patience.

Readers frequently note the lighthearted and self-deprecating tone of the prose, which serves to humanize the frustrations of the game. Experts highlight this as a classic example of mid-century sports humor that remains relevant for anyone who has struggled with the sport.