A minor demon finds his patience tested to the breaking point when he is tasked with tormenting a seemingly ordinary, stubborn man. The Yattering, a low-level entity bound by infernal contract, attempts to drive Jack Polo to madness through a series of increasingly elaborate and grotesque supernatural disturbances. Jack, however, remains maddeningly indifferent to the chaos, forcing the demon to escalate his tactics while navigating the rigid, bureaucratic rules of the demonic hierarchy. The narrative unfolds with a sharp, dark humor that highlights the absurdity of the demon's frustration against the protagonist's immovable composure.

This story is widely regarded as a quintessential example of the author's ability to blend visceral horror with biting, irreverent wit. Readers often point to the Yattering's characterization as a highlight, noting how the demon's petty grievances make him a surprisingly sympathetic figure despite his malevolent intent. The narrative structure is frequently praised for its tight pacing and the clever way it subverts expectations regarding the power dynamic between human and supernatural entities. It remains a staple of the author's short fiction collections, consistently cited for its unique tone and memorable, darkly comedic premise.