The Office (US)

When the carpet in his office becomes soiled, Michael promptly decides to exchange workstations with Jim as a light‑hearted response. Seated at Jim’s desk, he begins to reminisce about his pre‑management days, recalling how he used to play practical jokes on his colleagues.

The Carpet is a short‑form programme presented as a single episode. It falls squarely within the episode genre, offering a concise, self‑contained story that centres on a workplace incident. The plot kicks off when an employee accidentally soils the carpet in his office. Upon discovering the mess, Michael decides to change places with his colleague Jim, moving his own desk into the affected area. This sudden shift in seating sets the stage for the rest of the episode. With the new arrangement in place, Michael uses the opportunity to step back from his managerial role. He settles into the swapped workspace and, rather than tackling the clean‑up, he lets his mind wander back to the days before he became a manager. The change of scenery acts as a trigger, prompting him to recall the mischievous antics he used to pull on his peers. Those memories focus on his earlier reputation as a prankster. Michael reflects on the humour and light‑hearted trouble he caused before climbing the corporate ladder, contrasting his former carefree self with the more serious responsibilities he now holds. This nostalgic reverie forms the emotional core of the episode.