Essays about the author's life in writing and music, and working as a respiratory therapist. James Sallis is the author of the widely reviewed and highly regarded Lew Griffin detective series, as well as books of jazz criticism and a new biography of Chester Himes. The book gives the reader an intimate view of the author's concerns -- drawing meaning from tragedy, providing solace to the weak and vulnerable, gathering truth from love -- and their sources. This volume will appeal to all Sallis fans.