This book was written by the outstanding French film director of the older generation Jean Renoir, the author of such films as "Nana," "Madame Bovary," "Beast Man," "Great Illusion," "Rules of the Game" and many others. From the pages of the book rises the cultural and artistic world surrounding the artist for more than half a century, the social life of Europe, which is seen by the biased eyes of the artist, who drew themes, plots and style of his films in the modern world. The author reflects on the essence of the art of cinema, on his own artistic method. Written vividly and fascinatingly, this book is of considerable interest both for film experts and for a wide circle of readers.