Saïd Sayrafiezadeh's short story "Minimum Payment Due" delves into the harrowing experience of living with crippling credit card debt, a reality shared by a significant portion of the U.S. population. The protagonist grapples with relentless collection calls and the weight of his financial burden, which he struggles to even quantify, opting instead to lowball the amount owed in conversations, reflecting a common tendency to deny the severity of financial troubles. As he seeks solutions through self-help books, therapy, and even a cult, the story captures the futility and despair of trying to escape a cycle of debt that seems insurmountable. Sayrafiezadeh, who has a contrasting relationship with debt, intentionally leaves the exact amount owed ambiguous, allowing readers to project their own fears and experiences onto the narrative. This choice enhances the emotional impact of the story, making it a relatable exploration of financial anxiety and the societal stigma surrounding debt.
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