In the print William by Alex Katz, the viewer is presented with a portrait of a man dressed in a white shirt and a dark tie. The subject, named William, is depicted from the waist up, looking slightly to his right with a calm and contemplative expression on his face. His hair is dark, and his skin is rendered with warm, soft tones that contrast subtly with the background.

The background is a warm brown color, adorned with simple yet striking yellow flowers with dark centers, which add a touch of organic vibrancy to the composition. These flowers also provide a contrast to the man's formal attire, blending a sense of nature with the refined, minimalist portrait style that Katz is known for.

Katz employs his characteristic approach of using clean lines and broad, flat areas of color to create a sense of simplicity and elegance. The light shading on William's face and shirt gives the painting a three-dimensional feel, while the overall composition remains straightforward and uncluttered.

The combination of the subject’s serene expression, the formal clothing, and the floral background creates an intriguing and harmonious balance, making the portrait both engaging and aesthetically pleasing. The minimal details used by Katz are effective in conveying the personality and presence of William, demonstrating the artist's mastery in capturing the essence of his subjects with simplicity and grace.