“Humor happens when we’re told the truth quicker and more directly than we’re used to”(Saunders, 2007)

     George Saunders intentionally omits the narrator's name, revealing the detachment from self-caused by a demanding job. This underscores the narrative's exploration of the misguided belief that self-exploitation is the sole path to happiness. Thomas only refers to himself in the third person, narrating his experiences as “We take off our shirts and fold them up…. Thomas Kirster's our beautiful boy…the minute` his shirt comes off two fat ladies hustle up the aisle and stick some money in his pants and ask will he be their Pilot” (Saunders 1). Thomas is only acknowledged by name when his body is exhibited, implying his identity is entirely tied to self-exploitation. Despite his selflessness in providing for his family, the irony lies in how he's perceived with diminished morals and dignity by those above him, highlighting the harsh reality that worth in America is often equated with profit. Thomas, striving to escape hardship, has sacrificed his true identity to conform to societal expectations. His story reflects the sad reality imposed on the poor in America. 

     Aunt Bernie epitomizes the pressure to embrace servitude to capitalism for comfort, illustrating how even the purest individuals can succumb to the belief that their worth is solely tied to profit. Her life, dedicated to family and hard work as prescribed by societal norms, tragically reflects the false narrative perpetuated in America, leading to a regrettable existence for those who follow it. The dreadful irony of Aunt Bernie's satire that mocks her new vulgar persona is that the reality of her situation is tragic as it reveals the actual distinction of the upper and lower class as Bernie states, “Why do some people get everything and I got nothing?"(Saunders, 12).  The comedic irony arises from Bernie's posthumous realization that her earnest, dedicated life of toil failed to lead to the promised happiness. This poignant truth is satirized, highlighting the stark class distinction. The mockery lies in the disdainful perspective of those in higher echelons, diminishing Bernie's tragic situation as trivial and humorous. This underscores the deep-seated segregation prevalent in America.

     Initially depicted as hopeful and content, Bernie's transformation towards the end reflects her surrender to the system, convinced it is the sole path to happiness. Yet, in adopting this mindset, she confronts the stark realization that she always possessed "nothing." This underscores the prevailing notion in America's system that true prosperity requires embracing exploitation. The pervasive belief instilled in the poor is that to attain happiness and prosperity, one must willingly surrender one's life to the system if it allows it. Saunders' portrayal is a caution against anchoring one's purpose or value solely in the tangible realm of money. It underscores the notion that the self, being invaluable ultimately, is the ultimate essence of significance.

Work Cited:

George Saunders: Sea Oak. Short Story, https://barcelonareview.com/20/e_gs.htm.