hmm, I'm not sure how to feel about this story (now, 35 years later). On paper, the lessons seems pretty clear: look productive and don't be afraid to be a bit fancy or cryptic to flaunt your talents. This is (IMO unfortunate) standard workplace stuff you'd learn in any field.

But nowadays... I'm not sure with the strict hierarchies on if Alan would actually be promoted. And ofc, in todays' unprecedented environment there's probably more Charles out there than people want to admit, who's still providing value to companies. Very interesting story, one where you can argue that there's no obvious moral to take away when considering this 80's tale in the 2020's.