The narrative of “Marionettes, Inc.” is recounted from a third person limited omniscient perspective, offering readers insights into the thoughts and emotions of specific characters. The story opens with a lengthy dialogue between the two main characters, Braling and Smith. Small details from this conversation signal that the narrative is set in the future. While the story was first published in 1949, Braling reveals that he originally planned to visit Rio in 1979, approximately 10 years earlier. The revelation that Braling is traveling to Rio on a rocket conveys that this is an era where advanced technology is freely available. These details prepare readers for the later introduction of a highly sophisticated humanoid marionette.

Braling and Smith’s discussion largely focuses on their marriages and complaints about their wives. The characters are sounding boards for one another’s grievances as Smith points out the misery Braling endures, and vice versa. The theme of Marriage Versus Individual Desires is introduced as it emerges that both characters perceive their marriages as confining. Braling portrays his wife as hostile and controlling while Smith describes Nettie as suffocatingly affectionate.