Mosher begins by discussing the repetition of the theme paralysis. Mosher states, "The distribution, number, and importance of the acts of omission throughout Dubliners are remarkable." Clearly these "acts of omission" are prevalent in the stories, and it is no different in "A Little Cloud." In "A Little Cloud" Little Chandler's distraction causes him to forget to buy the coffee, and more importantly, his lack of commitment and talent, prevent him from writing poetry.
             Mosher discusses in great detail the theme of escape. Mosher believes, "One of the most prevalent and well-known motifs in Dubliners is the promise of escape with its subsequent frustration." He maintains that though this thought crosses many of the characters' minds it is rarely accomplished. In "A Little Cloud" escape by a change to the married state is mocked as it is repeatedly in a number of later stories. Gallaher's insincere congratulations to Chandler for having "tasted the joys of connubial bliss" are ironic by the story's ending and reduced to money by Gallaher's later remark, "I mean to marry money." For real adventure and success Gallaher advises those who can to "go away" "to London or Paris," to the "Moulin Rouge" or "Bohemian cafes," destinations and activities that reduce the importance of Chandler's trip to the Isle of Man or his entering Corless's bar for the "adventure of meeting Gallaher" or ultimately his "escape from his little house" "to live bravely like Gallaher" by publishing a book of poetry. "A Little Cloud" begins with a summary of Gallaher's escape to London, which has resulted in his having "got on," the ironic, trite signs of which are "his travelled air, his well-cut tweed suit and fearless accent," just as the earlier "signs of future greatness" had been his drinking and borrowing money
             Other cultural cliches appear frequently in Dubliners often with what Mosher call...