The author is dedicated to psychoanalysis as part of a wider cultural discussion, and this unique collection of essays on a wide range of related abstract topics combines literary and philosophical commentary with vivid clinical parables. 'Like Chekhov, Phillips writes as well as a doctor and his fascination with the subtle nuances of human behavior makes him a good storyteller. He has a welcome openness to the essential quirky nature of every human being; that is reason enough to read him.' Jane Mendelsohn, Guardian