It follows Tom Lehrer's musical career, the meaning of several of his songs, the politics of the time when he wrote the songs, and Greenblatt's own experiences with Lehrer's music, while playing some of Lehrer's songs intermittently.
The piece examines Tom Lehrer's musical journey, the meaning behind his songs, the political context surrounding their writing, and Greenblatt's own experiences with Lehrer's music, including playing some of his works.