In these essays, many originally published in The New Republic and Harper's, Robert Boyers explores, critiques, and praises works by writers who have westled with the political and social issues of their day. Essays Include: "The Indigenous Berserk: Philip Roth", "A Generous Mind: Natalia Ginzburg", "Clear Light and Shadow: Anita Desai", "Bullets of Milk: John Updike", "Thinking About Evil: Kafka, Naipaul, Coetzee", "Pathos and Resignation: Pat Barker", "The Dictator's Dictation: Augusto Roa Bastos", "Rubble and Ice: W. G. Sebald".