The play describes the early history of the twentieth century, including the onset of World War I, and the 'hysterical' 1920s, ending with a mix of dread and uncertainty about the future. The book of the play is dedicated 'to peace'; it was published by Farrar & Rinehart, New York, in 1938. The central figure of the play is the Astrologer, who encounters the various planets in turn, as the events of world history are alluded to in a somewhat prophetic tone.
Cast of the first performance
Kreymborg's inscription in a first edition of the play. The inscription is to William Thornton, the actor who played the Astrologer in the first performance, and reads: "To William Thornton the "Astrologer" who saved the Author. Alfred Kreymborg. 9/12/38"