This author's collection of the writer, playwright and screenwriter Anton Khaletsky includes works of different styles and forms. Stories in the genres of realism, fantasy and satire. One (almost) historical story. Science fiction story (plus two similar stories). A couple of essays and a monoplay. What unites all these things is the theme of real life. And the idea that life is given only once. Hence the name of the collection. At its core, each work is a socio-psychological drama. Even fantasy. The author's works have been awarded victories and nominations in various competitions. Including all-Russian and international ones.