A theme of "Gumption" is that equal rights are often unequally distributed.
- How does old man Oyster’s visit to the government relief office to fight for employment for his son contribute to this theme?
- He receives a promise of employment for his son but later learns that the job has been given to someone less qualified.
- His complaints are received with indifference and scorn, although both men are offered jobs as laborers.
- His protests are met with accusations and arrest, despite the fact that he is a citizen and his son is well qualified.
- He learns that in times of economic distress, employment opportunities become scarce for every citizen.