One possible theme is the sacrifice of personal life for career. The 'company man' might be so dedicated to his work that he neglects his family, friends, and personal interests.
The theme of alienation could also be present. He might feel isolated from his true self and others around him because of his all - consuming work life. He may not have time for meaningful relationships outside of work, and this could lead to a sense of loneliness and disconnection.
Another theme could be the dehumanizing aspect of corporate life. He may be treated more like a cog in the machine rather than a human being with feelings and needs. In the story, we might see how he is pushed to meet targets without much regard for his own health or happiness. For example, he may be given unrealistic workloads. And also, the theme of sacrifice for success could be present. He might sacrifice his family time, his hobbies, or his mental health in the pursuit of success in the company.
One of the main themes is workaholism. The character in the story is so consumed by his work for the company that he neglects other aspects of his life like his family and health. Another theme could be the dehumanizing aspect of corporate culture. The man is more of a cog in the corporate machine rather than a person with his own needs and desires.
One possible theme could be the power of non - verbal communication. Since the man is dumb, the story might show how he uses gestures, expressions, and body language to convey his thoughts and feelings.
Power and powerlessness could be a theme. As an 'almost a man', he may not have the power that comes with full adulthood, such as the power to make major decisions independently. He may be at the mercy of others, like his parents or older figures. However, he may also be starting to discover his own power within, like the power of his ideas or his ability to influence those close to him in small ways.
One possible theme could be the search for inner peace. The main character may be on a journey to find a calm state of mind in a chaotic world.
Another theme could be the idea of the underdog. As the little man is likely in a disadvantaged position compared to others in the story, it could show how the underdog can rise above. It might also touch on themes of acceptance, like how others in the story come to accept the little man for who he is and what he can do, rather than just seeing his small stature.
Love and loss could also be a theme. The dead man may have left behind a loved one, and the story could focus on how that person copes with the loss. It could show the different stages of grief, from denial to acceptance, and how the memories of the dead man continue to influence the lives of those who knew him.
One possible theme could be heroism. If the leading man is presented as a heroic figure, the story might explore what it means to be a hero, the sacrifices one has to make, and the responsibilities that come with being in a leading role.
The 'company man short story' might be about a man who is deeply involved in his company life. Maybe it shows his daily routine, his relationship with colleagues, or his pursuit of success within the company. For example, he could be a workaholic, sacrificing his personal time for the company's goals.
In 'the company man short story', it likely depicts the life of a man deeply involved in his company. He might sacrifice a lot for his work, such as personal time and relationships. Maybe he is so focused on climbing the corporate ladder that he forgets about other aspects of his life.