The narrative follows an art historian in Buenos Aires who intertwines her personal experiences with the lives of various artists, exploring themes of perception, identity, and the transformative power of art. Through a series of vignettes, the protagonist reflects on her own life, relationships, and the artworks that have profoundly impacted her, creating a rich tapestry that blurs the lines between art and reality. The story delves into the intimate connections between the observer and the observed, revealing how art can shape and mirror our innermost selves.

The novel revolves around a family living in an unfinished luxury apartment building in Buenos Aires, where the father works as a night watchman. As they navigate their daily lives amidst the construction site, they encounter ghostly apparitions that only the family can see. The story delves into themes of class disparity, the supernatural, and the intersection of the mundane with the extraordinary, culminating in a haunting and thought-provoking narrative.

The novel explores a dystopian world where healthcare has become a bureaucratic nightmare, and the protagonist, Ernesto, navigates the complexities of a dehumanized medical system while grappling with his father's terminal illness. As Ernesto confronts the cold, impersonal nature of modern medicine, he reflects on themes of mortality, familial duty, and the erosion of personal agency. The narrative delves into the emotional and ethical challenges faced by individuals in a society where life and death are treated as mere transactions, highlighting the profound impact of systemic indifference on human relationships and personal identity.

The book is a reflective and introspective narrative that delves into the author's thoughts and memories as he celebrates his fiftieth birthday. It weaves together elements of autobiography, fiction, and philosophical musings, exploring themes of time, identity, and the nature of existence. Through a series of vignettes and contemplations, the author examines his past, present, and future, offering a poignant and often whimsical meditation on the passage of life and the creative process.