A short play by Seanan Palmero Waugh
Two people having a Zoom meeting.
BOSS
Final question: how prepared are you to work from home indefinitely?
EMPLOYEE
I’m a writer. I’m always prepared to work while not wearing pants.
BOSS
Good to know.
EMPLOYEE
… I’m wearing them now. I planned on wearing jammies all day. But then I got your email and instead of working, pushed my laundry out of view for this meeting. I’m exhausted. And I have to follow up with Ted—
BOSS
Ted’s prioritizing childcare.
EMPLOYEE
Then Kimberly—
BOSS
Caring for elderly parents.
EMPLOYEE
Is anyone working?
BOSS
Other obligations.
EMPLOYEE
I HAVE OTHER OBLIGATIONS!!!
BOSS
Kids?
EMPLOYEE
No.
BOSS
Parents?
EMPLOYEE
No.
BOSS
… Pets?
EMPLOYEE
Why is my life only worthy of care if I have dependents?
BOSS
… So you can get back to work now, right?
EMPLOYEE
… Right.
END OF PLAY
