The novel is set in the post-World War I era, a time of significant social and economic upheaval. Hecht's characters are often depicted as flawed and struggling with their desires, ambitions, and the often harsh realities of life. Through their stories, Hecht explores themes such as corruption, greed, betrayal, and the quest for meaning in a seemingly indifferent world."Gargoyles" is notable for its literary style, blending realism with elements of dark humor and satire. Hecht's prose is both incisive and evocative, capturing the essence of his characters' inner lives and the society they inhabit. The novel's title metaphorically refers to the grotesque stone figures that adorn Gothic architecture, symbolizing the hidden, often ugly aspects of human existence that Hecht seeks to expose and examine.