Any time the cops show up, you know we're going to have to get into rules and order just a little. However, this theme goes beyond just breaking the law in this play. There are rules and order of the office—of the business world—and in Glengarry Glen Ross the men are defined by how they relate to these rules.
Questions About Rules and Order
- How is the cop treated differently by each of the salesmen?
- Is it Williamson's job to bring order to the office, or do you think the office thrives on chaos?
- Even though they compete against one another, do you think there are unspoken rules that the salesmen adhere to when dealing with each other?
Chew on This
Try on an opinion or two, start a debate, or play the devil’s advocate.
Roma's status is so ingrained in the office as the top seller that he is able to brush off (and even verbally abuse) the cop. Being top dog at work has perks everywhere.
Shelly truly believes that his big sale will let him get away with stealing the leads. If the sale had been legit, there is a chance that Williamson would have let the robbery slide.