This disquieting, sharply comic novel recounts a period of mental breakdown in the life of Gilbert Pinfold, an established novelist of mature years An inability to control his fantasies sends Gilbert Pinfold, a well-known author, cruising on a Ceylon-bound liner to recuperate. Yet, to his horror, the hallucinations increase and life on board becomes very embarrassing. This curious and diverting novel throws new light on Evelyn Waugh's remarkable talent.