Latimer, an English gentleman living a secluded and solitary life, is diagnosed with a nervous condition and circulatory issues. His doctor declares that he will not live for many more months. Latimer, however, has the abilities of insight and foresight, allowing him to see his death as occurring in exactly one month’s time, on September 20, 1850. Latimer has decided to write the story of his life as a way to mark his death, as he leaves no family or significant work behind.

Latimer begins his narrative by recounting his childhood. He is close to his mother, but she dies when he is a young child. Latimer’s nature is poetic and sensitive—a stark contrast to that of his father and brother. Latimer’s father consults the phrenologist Mr. Letherall to examine the shape of Latimer’s skull and advise him on how to best educate and raise Latimer. Mr. Letherall claims that Latimer has “defects” in organizational and rational thought, prompting Latimer’s father to emphasize science, mechanics, zoology, and botany in Latimer’s lessons. Latimer resents this evaluation of his character and continues to read Latin, the classics, and philosophy in his spare time. At 16, Latimer is sent abroad to Geneva to complete this prescribed course of study.