Oppression

One of the primary ways in which Orozco explores the theme of oppression is through the role of the co-worker, particularly concerning the co-worker’s narration and the co-worker’s relationship with the new employee. The co-worker uses many imperatives when addressing the new employee. For example, the co-worker begins the tour by telling the new employee, “never answer your phone” (3). By using various imperatives, the co-worker establishes a relationship of control over the new employee, and this can be perceived as oppressive, because the new employee has no control over the conversation whatsoever. Moreover, the new employee has a passive role in the relationship with the co-worker. This dynamic is exemplified by the fact that even when the new employee has a question, it is actually asked by the co-worker: “What do I mean? I’m glad you asked that” (4). The new employee’s passive...