Advertisements

In this story collection, advertising symbolizes the ways in which corporate influence can undermine society and culture. Advertising is present in “My Flamboyant Grandson,” “Jon,” and “In Persuasion Nation.” In each of these stories, the content and presentation of advertising are portrayed in a way that highlights the ability of advertisements to hinder personal experiences and promote deleterious aesthetics and values.

Violence

In this story collection, violence symbolizes the destructive nature of hatred, fear, and aggression. Physical violence occurs (or is described via allusion) in “Adams,” “In Persuasion Nation,” “Bohemians,” and “CommComm.” In all of these stories, the aggressors’ violent actions stem from hatred and fear, and the violence itself is consistently presented as morally indefensible.

KidLuv, Inc.

In “I CAN SPEAK! TM,” KidLuv, Inc. symbolizes the angers of corporatism, specifically in reference to the wellbeing of workers. Rick Sminks is a sales representative for the...