Financial Hardship

Many of the characters in this collection struggle with financial hardship, and the author uses these characters as a platform for how the less fortunate, under a system of capitalism, are often subjected to inhumane indignities and harsh personal tribulations. One of the most prominent examples of this dynamic in the book are that of the protagonist and Janet in “Pastoralia.” Their work is quite restrictive and humiliating. They are required to spend their days portraying ancient cave people without breaking character, even when there are no patrons present, and they cannot leave the complex after hours. Despite these hardships, their payment apparently does not constitute a sufficient living wage. Janet cannot afford to pay someone to take care of her ailing mother, and the protagonist’s family is sinking into increasingly deep debt due to Nelson’s medical costs in addition to everyday expenses...