In this excerpt from Philip K. Dick's "Ubik," the protagonist Joe Chip engages in a peculiar act of disassembling his apartment's door. He uses a stainless steel knife to unscrew the bolts of a door that he perceives as a burden, symbolized by its claim that it will sue him. This personification of the door adds a layer of absurdity to the situation, illustrating the surreal nature of the world in which Joe lives.

Joe responds to the door's threat with indifference, revealing his character's resilience and ability to cope with bizarre circumstances. The interaction hints at themes of alienation and the strange relationships individuals may have with the objects and technology around them. This peculiar exchange encapsulates the essence of Dick's work, blending humor with existential queries.