The 234 numbered stories are 7-12 lines long; shorter ones on top of page, often one sentence long, are epigrams used as multiple epigraphs. All develop classic Trevisan fare: assault, adultery, family battering, rape and ensuing pregnancy, pedophilia, murder, suicide, etc. and brilliantly compress them. Another variation on Trevisan's themes with his usual aplomb and irony (and deep down, perhaps compassion).