Donald W. Winnicott (1896-1971) was one of the first to explore the emotional states of children. He developed concepts such as the transitional object and the "good enough mother." Who and what influenced this fascinating individual, who often swam against the current of contemporary psychoanalysis? Adam Phillips sheds light on Winnicott's life journey and traces his thoughts, which remain remarkably relevant, even though they did not establish a school of thought.