Poquette has a bachelor's degree in English and specializes in writing about literature. In the following essay, Poquette discusses the relative unimportance of Kim's involuntary sacrifice in Bisson's story, while exploring the sinister implications of the act.

Kim is expected to sacrifice herself for the benefit of the entire world, something that Ron alludes to in the beginning of the story when he says, "You have been chosen to represent all humanity for one evening." However, Kim's sacrifice is involuntary; she has not chosen to die. In one of her unheard statements, Kim notes this. Ron responds, saying, "I'm sorry you feel that way. I'm sure voluntary would be better. But somebody must have bought you a ticket; that's the way it works."

Although Ron and the producers of the television show go to great lengths to conceal it, Kim's sacrifice is relatively unimportant, a fact that...