Contents: Preface. Introduction. 1. Life resurrected: the resurrection. 2. Achievement through decline: the wreckage of Agathon and the sunlight dialogues. 3. The wrecker and the affirmer: Grendel and Freddy’s book. 4. Celebration of goodness: Nickel mountain. 5. Towards a new life: October light. 6. Philosopher as affirmer: Mickelson’s ghosts. 7. Triumph of love: stillness. Conclusion. Bibliography.

"John Gardner is perhaps America’s most important spokesperson of moral and cultural values in literature. He strongly believes in the view that true art is essentially moral. In his fiction, he takes up the cause of traditional values and wages a battle against man’s tendency to shirk from personal and moral responsibility. The present book studies the theme of affirmation which is prominent and recurring in his novels. It provides an indispensable guide to the theme and philosophy of the novelist and offers new insights into his fiction." (jacket)