Louis Spickett is a product of the mid-twenties who was, as a young child, witness to the vagaries of that era and the subsequent one which terminated (1939) in chaos and a war in which he participated.

Experience tempers the soul, or so they say, and he claims his involvement with people has broadened his regard for at least some in the human race. That many citizens of the world subscribe to bestiality within the catchment of capitalism, politics and the like does tend to undermine his confidence. There is reward in taking the optimistic line – an opiate maybe, but peace for a while.

So here we begin.

In writing this book, episodic in style, he begins to unravel some of the strengths and weaknesses, loves and hates of the various individuals who are bound together as a team of workers. His personal involvement, for in truth he was there, gave birth to a diary of memories – the joyous moments, the laughter and, on occasion, the sadness – all episodes of passion one way or another, through which each will pass.

Its ‘gay’ dimension is brief, for the period would allow little else. Homosexual emancipation had not yet arrived.