The obvious cultural reference here is to "The Godfather" (or, if you prefer, "You've Got Mail" referencing "The Godfather" reference): It's not personal — it's strictly business.
The point is that it is personal. When something happens to a person (like losing a job... or a life), it's always personal to them. Employers would do well to remember this when the balance of power inevitably swings back to them after The Great Resignation.
The less obvious cultural reference: The nameplate in the first frame says, "Shankly," which is an allusion to a song ("Frankly, Mr. Shankly" by The Smiths) in which the singer is tendering his resignation. The lyrics definitely resonated more with me in my idealistic youth. To wit:
Frankly, Mr. Shankly, this position I've held
It pays my way, and it corrodes my soul
I want to leave, you will not miss me
I want to go down in musical history
But I think the song still holds up in its argument for not suffering a job that is not good for you. Especially if you don't have to suffer.
John Auchter is a freelance political cartoonist. His views are his own and do not necessarily reflect those of Michigan Radio, its management, or its license holder, the University of Michigan.
