Is Doctor Proteus on? said Kroner's secretary. Doctor Kroner is in. Just a moment, said Katharine. Doctor Proteus, Doctor Kroner is in and will speak to you. All right, I'm on. Doctor Proteus is on the line, said Katharine. Doctor Kroner, Doctor Proteus is on the line. Tell him to go ahead, said Kroner. Tell Doctor Proteus to go ahead, said Kroner's secretary. Doctor Proteus, please go ahead, said Katharine. This is Paul Proteus, Doctor Kroner. I'm returning your call.
In this excerpt from "Player Piano" by Kurt Vonnegut Jr., the dialogue revolves around a phone call involving Doctor Kroner and Doctor Proteus. Katharine, Kroner's secretary, facilitates the communication between the two doctors. The conversation illustrates a typical office environment where calls are transferred, highlighting the bureaucratic process within the context of their professional roles.
Doctor Proteus identifies himself as he prepares to discuss matters with Doctor Kroner after being informed that he is on the line. This interaction not only establishes their professional relationship but also sets the stage for the themes of communication and authority that are explored throughout the book.
