Paul King, an Irish landowner, is dying; his wife is half his age. He has not allowed his wealth to spread ease or comfort. When he dies, his handsome young workman Paul is urged by a cunning mother to move in on the vulnerable young widow.

The Power of Darkness reflects a fallen world. The title is a description of the force that drives it; sexual ignorance and the old fear of famine lead to irrational greed, coupled with the need for redemption.