In addition to well-known poems and epigrams, the book includes new and previously unpublished works by Valentin Gaft, including his memoirs, written specifically for this publication. The chapter “Strokes to the Portrait” contains short stories, essays and interviews about Gafta, provided to the publishing house by such famous theater and film figures as L. Akhedzhakova, R. Bykov, G. Gorin, I. Kvasha, E. Ryazanov. In the chapters “Names”, “Theatre”, “You and I”, “Reflections”, “Angle of View”, “Zoo”, the works are selected on a thematic basis, which will allow the reader to more easily perceive and feel the unusual power of Gaft’s poetic talent and his unique perception the surrounding world.