Theme and message

The main theme of the short story “Tobias” is consequences of unemployment. This theme is enhanced by the motif of depression caused by unemployment. Depression is a psychological disorder that can show itself in various ways, which is often a result of an upsetting event or situation. The author’s message with the short story is that unemployment causes a vicious circle. Unemployment affects both individuals and couples negatively, and the negatively affected unemployed can contribute to making things worse for themselves.

Consequences of unemployment

The story follows Tobias, a man who is unemployed after being fired from three jobs as a result of declining economic circumstances. After being fired from his third job as a clerk, Tobias gives up trying to find a job and settles for staying at home, playing music, and eating potato chips. His attitude suggests that he is depressed and has lost hope of finding a job. This does not only affect Tobias’ state of mind but also his relationship...