Robots

The robots symbolize the relationship between external and internal humanity. The robots are not humans, but they do attempt to understand and relate to human behavior. They even appear to develop actual human emotions, such as when they adopt Marjorie’s dog. The robots are presented as more human when they show care and compassion for other beings.

The Rain of Beads

The Rain of Beads symbolizes sex-related phobias. Janice tells a supposedly true story in which a group of robots seduced and had sex with a group of adolescent female humans. Unfortunately, the process killed the women in a gruesome fashion. The tone and content of this anecdote reflect sex-related anxiety present in American culture, where sexual subjects are often taboo.

Horsewomen

Janice’s story about four horsewomen symbolizes the use of storytelling to promote bravery and personal aspirations. When Janice is young, she makes...