What Does Clark Say About His Boss in Christmas Vacation?

By Michael Ferguson

In the holiday classic, Christmas Vacation, Clark Griswold is a man on a mission to create the perfect Christmas for his family. Throughout the film, Clark’s boss, Frank Shirley, is a constant source of frustration and stress for him. But what exactly does Clark say about his boss in Christmas Vacation?

Well, to put it simply, Clark has some choice words for Mr. Shirley throughout the movie. In fact, one of the most memorable scenes in Christmas Vacation involves Clark going on a rant about his boss after learning that he won’t be receiving his expected Christmas bonus.

“I want to look him straight in the eye and tell him what a cheap, lying, no-good, rotten, four-flushing, low-life, snake-licking, dirt-eating, inbred, overstuffed, ignorant, blood-sucking, dog-kissing, brainless”

Clark’s rant is not only hilarious but also relatable to anyone who has ever had a difficult boss. But why does Clark feel so strongly about Mr. Shirley?

Firstly, Mr. Shirley is portrayed as a heartless businessman who cares more about profits than his employees’ well-being. This is evident when he cancels employee bonuses due to budget cuts but still plans an expensive company party that includes imported eggnog.

Secondly, Mr. Shirley’s decision to cancel bonuses puts Clark’s own plans in jeopardy. He had already taken out a loan for a swimming pool and was counting on the bonus to cover it. This creates even more stress for Clark as he tries to come up with alternative ways to pay for the pool.

Lastly, Mr. Shirley’s lack of appreciation for Clark’s hard work throughout the year is frustrating. As an employee who has been with the company for years and has always gone above and beyond his duties (even decorating his office with Christmas lights), Clark feels undervalued and unappreciated.

In conclusion, Clark Griswold’s rant about his boss in Christmas Vacation is not only a comedic moment in the film but also highlights the frustrations and struggles of working under a difficult boss. Mr. Shirley represents the heartless, profit-driven businessman that many employees can relate to, and Clark’s outburst is a cathartic release of those frustrations. So the next time you watch Christmas Vacation, remember that Clark Griswold’s feelings about his boss are more than just a funny rant – they represent a common workplace struggle.

Key Points:

  • Clark Griswold has some choice words for his boss, Frank Shirley, in Christmas Vacation.
  • Mr. Shirley is portrayed as heartless businessman who cares more about profits than his employees’ well-being. Shirley’s decision to cancel employee bonuses puts Clark’s own plans in jeopardy and creates more stress for him.
  • Clark feels undervalued and unappreciated by Mr. Shirley despite his years of hard work.
  • The rant is a cathartic release of frustrations that many employees can relate to when working under a difficult boss.