Incessant Babble

Winnie contradicts herself throughout Happy Days, but the one instance of Winnie’s incessant contradictions that struck me as most odd was her assurance of silence to Willie.

Winnie promises quiet after Willie entertains her request of repetition. Winnie keeps bothering Willie to echo what she previously stated, and Willie repeats only the first half of the statement.

WINNIE: … Bless you Willie I do appreciate your goodness I know what an effort it costs you, now you may relax I shall not trouble you again unless I am obliged to, by that I mean unless I come to the end of my own resources which is most unlikely, just to know in theory you can hear me even though in fact you don’t is all I need, just to feel you there within earshot and conceivably on the qui vive is all I ask, … (281).

All I Ask of You -Skrillex

Winnie claims she will leave Willie alone, but while informing him of her future silence, she babbles on to him.

In fact, Winnie continues to assail Willie’s ears with her constant dribble as she swears a second time that he will enjoy some peaceful relaxation.

WINNIE: … And you have done more than your bit already, for the time being, just lie back now and relax, I shall not trouble you again unless I am compelled to, just to know you are there within hearing and conceivably on the semi-alert is…er…paradise enow (284).

Winnie's in Paradise?

Nope.

Winnie obviously comes “to the end of her resources” and is “compelled to” talk to Willie because she continues to do so throughout the remainder of the play.

Winnie has won me over, though, with her positive attitude. She would settle with knowing Willie is present instead of listening to all she has to say. The fact that this request is “all I ask” forces me to adore Winnie and her unique situation.