...if you...persist in your desire to return your ICS1900, my commission must be refunded, by me, to [my supervisor]…I have certainly refunded commissions to [my supervisor] before, especially lately. I don’t quite know what I’m doing wrong.
-- Rick Sminks ("I CAN SPEAK! TM")

Importance: Towards the end of Rick's letter, Rick begins to write about the company that employs him. He mentions that the company requires its employees to purchase and use its products. he then hints that he is worried about losing his job, especially since he has a wife and child. Thus, the story's thematic focus transitions to the stressful and degrading effects that capitalism often has on workers.

…let me communicate my love and acceptance in everything I do.
-- Grandfather (narration) ("My Flamboyant Grandson")

Importance: The grandfather's relationship with his grandson is based on kindness, acceptance, and unconditional love. The grandfather has no qualms with the fact that his grandson is effeminate and flamboyant. The story...