Harley, a man of profound sensitivity, attempts to navigate a callous, commercialized society while maintaining his moral integrity. Harley is a protagonist defined by his extreme emotional responsiveness and benevolence, qualities that frequently leave him vulnerable to exploitation by more cynical individuals. The narrative follows his episodic encounters with various figures in poverty or distress, highlighting the friction between his innate kindness and the harsh realities of a profit-driven world. The story is presented through a fragmented, non-linear framework, framed as a collection of papers salvaged from a clergyman, which emphasizes the incomplete and observational nature of Harley's life.

Discussion often centers on the novel's role as a quintessential example of the sentimental movement in 18th-century literature. Readers frequently highlight the stark contrast between Harley's gentle nature and the indifference of the society he inhabits, which serves as the primary engine for the book's thematic inquiries. Critics often note that the pacing is intentionally slow and reflective, prioritizing the examination of moral philosophy over traditional plot progression. The work remains a subject of interest for those studying the evolution of the novel and the cultural value placed on emotional expression during the Enlightenment period.