Content Warning: This section of the guide includes descriptions of physical and emotional abuse, graphic violence, death, and racism.

“The point is, Norma, that who you kill makes no difference. It’s still murder.”

As Norma and Arthur debate the ethical implications of pushing the button that will simultaneously award them $50,000 and kill a stranger, they never manage to agree or even understand each other’s perspectives. The Dilemmas of Marriage are most evident in this dynamic because Norma and Arthur’s lack of understanding foreshadows the devastating fact that Norma and her husband are strangers to one another. Norma also lacks empathy for others and doesn’t mind the idea of killing someone she doesn’t know.

“As she hung up, she remembered Arthur’s life insurance policy for $25,000.”

In a moment of supreme cynicism, Matheson confirms the fundamental selfishness of Norma’s nature, for even as she realizes that her husband was just killed through her ill-advised action, the first thing she thinks about is the money that she will receive from his life insurance policy. Her superficial nature and shortsightedness are examples of The Devastating Effects of Selfishness, and Matheson uses this story to imply that much of humanity’s suffering arises from similarly selfish acts.

“He paused for a moment of dramatic emphasis, enjoying the moment fully.”

In this passage, it becomes clear that Greg revels in deliberate sadism and delights in exploiting Carrie’s prophetic talents for his own gain. He also enjoys holding power over the people whose loved ones are doomed to die.