Roger Nichols places the life of Debussy within the context of his age.
1. Childhood and musical studies (1862¿1884); 2. Roman holiday? (1885¿1887); 3. A Bohemian in Paris (1887¿1893); 4. Scandals and masterpieces (1894¿1901); 5. Idol and victim (1902¿1907); 6. Travels and travails (1908¿1914); 7. War and last years (1914¿1918); Envoi.