ABSTRACT
Organizational artifacts are a part of how we perform work, and they are often also symbols of power and control. Where one’s office is located usually becomes an emblem of status or lack thereof. The poem makes clear that some objects like the table can be unconsciously imbued with meaning that draws primitive experience to consciousness. Group relations theory also offers insights. The poem reminds people that sometimes fighting back as individuals or as a group against the CEO’s power is dangerous and can lead to individual and group annihilation. Karen Horney’s three directions of movement offer more insights into the power of the door in the poem. Object relations theory suggests that the beleaguered employee in the poem who feels minimized, disregarded, disrespected, and even disposable has been transformed into an object in the mind of the boss, which justifies and enables the abusive treatment.
