Part memoir, mostly anecdotes and essays, the book begins with a view of a vanished era, life as seen through the eyes of a boy growing up during the depression years. Greene's powerful memory provides a unique first-hand account of events nearly a century ago – as the book goes to press, he is celebrating his 103rd birthday.
The second section is a brief description of Greene' s work at the White House on scientific and technical subjects in response to questions from members of the administration. The next two sections are based on Greene's experience in two areas of major interest to him, sailing and classical music. The fourth section builds on a line from Schiller's poem "Ode to Joy" stating that joy can be found in nature. Outdoor activities - sailing, skiing, and diving - and creative labor - can create moments of exuberance amounting to pure joy. The book continues with a section of essays and anecdotes on topics that are of particular interest to Greene, and he trusts it will be to the reader.
Greene's writing style combines erudition, humor, and informality much like conversation among friends. His precise memory enables him to write about events from nearly a century ago as if they had freshly occurred.
