This collection captures the shifting social and cultural landscape of Ireland through the lens of its most prominent short story practitioners. Frank O'Connor curates a selection of narratives that examine the tension between individual desire and the rigid constraints of Irish tradition, religion, and rural life. The stories function as a mirror to the national identity, utilizing a variety of perspectives to explore themes of isolation, political upheaval, and the complexities of domestic existence. The narrative framework varies from stark realism to lyrical introspection, reflecting the diverse stylistic approaches of the contributing authors.

Readers and critics frequently note that this anthology serves as a definitive introduction to the evolution of the Irish short story form. Discussion often centers on O'Connor's editorial choices, which highlight the transition from folklore-inspired prose to modern, psychologically complex narratives. Many reviewers emphasize the balance between the stark, often bleak atmosphere of the stories and the sharp, observational wit present in the writing. The collection is widely regarded as a significant resource for understanding the thematic preoccupations of 20th-century Irish writers.