Why Not, Lafayette? is not a complete life of Lafayette. It only touches briefly on Lafayette's childhood, most of which was lived on country estates. The biography begins during Lafayette's late teens in Paris by detailing his conduct and thoughts. For Lafayette, Paris was at first an alien world.

He had been born into his rank of marquis, and servants, family, and townsfolk catered to him, but in London people did not tip their hats to him and did not in general even notice him. The city was a busy place, with people bustling about hurriedly. Furthermore, Paris was a place where Lafayette was expected to participate in the court of the king and to attend balls and many other social functions, most of which bored him. He wanted a more meaningful life.

America's revolt against England promised the active life Lafayette wanted. France had long been hostile...