Final answer:
The excerpts depict characters dealing with uncertainty and suspense in descriptive and vivid settings, presenting a thematic link to the concept of facing the unknown, as in the case of John and his boss.
Step-by-step explanation:
The provided excerpts describe a series of tense and mysterious scenarios that involve characters in various states of distress or concern. These passages are rich with descriptive language and convey a sense of uncertainty and suspense. They follow characters through experiences that are both physically and emotionally taxing, within settings that are strikingly vivid but also ominous. A common thread in these narratives is the feeling of being confronted with unexpected situations or being in unfamiliar, often unsettling environments. This ties back to your original question regarding John walking down the corridor without knowing what his boss wants, indicating a thematic connection of characters facing the unknown and potential upheaval in their lives.