In this memoir, Steve Martin reflects on his past with a unique perspective, portraying it as more of a biography than an autobiography. He illustrates that although the events he recounts are true, they sometimes feel distant, as if they occurred to another person. This sense of detachment indicates his journey of self-discovery and the complexity of memory.

Martin acknowledges a long absence from his stand-up comedy roots, which he now views with a sense of warmth and fondness. Even the challenging periods he refers to as "the war years" have become a source of affection for him, showcasing how time can alter one's relationship with the past and reveal a newfound appreciation.