James Rubin organizes this book by subject matter, rather than by artist or chronologically, looking at urban views and city life, interiors and still life, family and friends, and other common themes. In discussing Impressionism in this manner, he provides readers with the tools to think critically and analytically about the movement, and offers a new understanding of the collective momentum that drove the impressionists to work with such originality and commitment to modern themes.

Through close readings and comparisons of specific paintings, and with a wealth of illustrations, Rubin establishes links between the broad visual culture of the time period and the various Impressionist artists, and within the artists’ own careers. The entire history of Impressionism is covered, in an entirely new way.