Topic > Conformity in A & P's 'Hunger Artist' by Updike

However in the early part of his story he kept most of these feelings of irritation to himself, implying that for the most part he was determined not to express your concern regarding the public's proposals, which customers you would target in this scenario. He nicknames them "sheep" because they are unconsciously tormented by their routine to the point that they seem to ignore almost everything. The author further exaggerates this point by suggesting how these people, this group of middle-aged women are too absorbed in their activity that detonating a bomb would not hypothetically attract their attention. Even when a group of women who do not follow the traditional dress code at that particular time are introduced to the reading, it does not shock them. Instead they choose to ignore the existence of these girls as if they aren't there or aren't important enough to give them some time. While a minority like Sammy's boss, deeply tied to traditions, wastes no time in denouncing these girls and their inappropriate behavior.