One of the most interesting passages in The Merchant of Venice is Antonio's letter to Bassanio (III.iii.314-320). A letter is such an awkward element to represent on stage that the fact that a letter is read aloud during a show is significant. And in fact this letter captures many of the main features of the conflicts of the work. Antonio wastes no time in communicating bad news, "my ships have all aborted" (314), he writes to imply that he is broke, but does not want to insist too much on this point, as he probably fears that his wealth is the only because of Bassanio's friendship. The use of the word abortion is interesting, as it suggests a terminated pregnancy and failed investments. It thus becomes a metaphor for what Antonio fails to provide to Bassanio. Male bonding is fine, but it provides no sex (allegedly) and certainly no heirs. Antony's "creditors become cruel" (315), this statement has a tinge of offended pride, as the wording suggests that it is unreasonable for creditors to demand their money. As we were told earlier in the play. T...