The first three chapters of the book offer the author's depiction of his life leading up to his cryptic odyssey through various countries and continents of the world. The symptoms and signs of his mental illness are evident throughout the book, but they do not detract from a reader's comprehension and enjoyment of the storyline as it develops. The descriptions of his experiences are generally quite lucid, educational, and entertaining. He offers little-known information relating to the field of precious metal prospecting, and he includes interesting world historical information that bears on his narrative. The book also offers vivid insights into the real world as seen by someone unknowingly suffering from mental illness.