Switching Places

Merriman: Hello, my name is Merriman and I am pleased to meet you.

Billy: H-h-h-hi, my n-name is Billy Bibbit. D-d-do you come h-h-here often?

Merriman: No, this is my first time. I am trying to get away, you see, I am a butler at the Manor House, Jack Worthington’s estate.  I am just so tired of being bossed around there, even if it is my job.

Billy: W-w-w-wow, what is it l-like to live in a m-m-mansion?  At l-l-least you don’t live in an asylum, l-l-like me.

Merriman: ‘“Yes, sir,’” but I would enjoy having friends around to talk to like a normal guy once in a while (Wilde, 30).

Billy: ‘“You think I wuh-wuh-wuh-want to stay [there]?’”  The awful Nurse Ratched and my mother control me, what I would give to get out of that place (Kesey, 195).

Merriman: I’m gonna get real weird with it and suggest we switch places, Mr. Bibbit. ‘“The dog-cart is waiting [outside]’” and you can ride it to the Manor! I’ll spend some time at the asylum (Wilde, 32).

Billy: ‘“What do you m-m-mean?’” (Kesey, 264).  D-d-do you think this w-w-would work?

Merriman: Surely! We look quite similar and both seem to need a break from our controlling family members and bosses.  We can meet back here in a week, sooner if necessary.

Billy: Well, I w-w-would like t-t-t-to get away from the w-w-ward, my m-mother, and the t-t-terrible Nurse Ratched.  L-l-let’s do it.  

Merriman: Wonderful.  I will see you in a week! Farewell, Mr. Bibbit.

Billy: G-g-good bye Merriman.

Billy (left) and Merriman look just alike!