Summary

In “A Thing at Work,” Gen encountered Brenda in the office break room. Brenda babbled about the food and coffee in the kitchen, suggesting it would be silly “to steal coffee” when they “got paid good” (105). Then she talked about her children, Greggie and Bethie, who were “living with her now, again” (105). Gen wished she could escape the conversation. When Brenda made negative comments about their boss, Tim, Tim walked by. After Brenda left and Tim entered, Gen gave him a look, expecting “collegial commiseration” in return (107). When he did not commiserate, Gen felt embarrassed.

In her office, Brenda chastised herself for what she had said to Gen. She regretted mentioning her children and the coffee. Brenda had been stealing from the office. She was not paid well and was supporting her adult children. Taking coffee and paper towels...