In 1970 Dirk Bogarde retired from acting and turned towards a quieter, more contemplative, more settled way of life. He both dreaded and yearned for a change from the preceding 20 years of "continual motion." Bogarde sought "a place of my own" and found it in a dilapidated farmhouse in the south of France. He writes eloquently of the dual struggle he faced--first dealing with years of neglect to the house and the land; second, with the awful fear that he had made a frightful error. Finally, we share his success in creating a real home, a sanctuary of simplicity and quiet ease where he intends to stay for good. "Bogarde"s rare talent for giving resonance to both the small and large moments of life makes this a singularly rich and satisfying memoir." (Publisher"s Source)