Marionettes, Inc.

At the core of “Marionettes, Inc.” lies the theme of marriage versus individual desires. This central theme delves into the individual desire for autonomy and the conflicts that arise when marriage is perceived to encroach on freedom. The story underlines the tension between the commitments and compromises inherent in marriage and the pursuit of personal fulfillment.

The difficulties of balancing the needs of two individuals in a marriage are clearly articulated in the initial conversation between Braling and Smith. Braling’s dream of going to Rio, curtailed by his marriage, symbolizes how the male characters feel their autonomy is stifled by marital expectations. Both feel pressured by the belief that their wives expect their constant company. Their frustration emphasizes how differing priorities or values can create friction within a relationship. At the same time, Bradbury implies that neither Braling nor Smith talks to their wives about their feelings. Instead of engaging in honest communication, they go to extraordinary lengths to attain their freedom in more circuitous ways. Unbeknown to his wife, Braling spends thousands of dollars from their joint account on a marionette, and Smith intends to follow his example. Both men defend their actions by arguing that the decision will ultimately benefit their marriage.