While engaging with the tragic events of the Zimbabwean novelist, poet and dramatist's life, this book nonetheless reduces the critical focus that has often been on the man rather than his work, and takes full stock of his oeuvre. Written in various accomplished styles, Marechera's work offers not only a rewarding experience to its readers in and of itself, but stands as a unique and invaluable record of pre- and post-independence Zimbabwe as seen by a very individual talent.