A theatrical memoir by a prolific dramatist recounts his early stage-struck boyhood, failed false starts, first commercial sale, and career-long encounters with melodrama, managers, actors, and critics. Interleaved with anecdotes are practical reflections on craft and commerce: techniques for producing many plays, the dramatist's profession, changes in the theater, and experiences adapting work for Hollywood. The volume balances reminiscence, professional counsel, and portraits of theatrical figures while tracing the author's personal development from amateur dramatist to established practitioner.