Write a commentary of the 7th page of 'Waiting for Godot' by Samuel Beckett. (Question for an Unseen English Literature Exam)

Samuel Beckett through dialogue and stage directions points to the irony of man’s position- humorously exploring how man who has little knowledge will speak and take action in life as if he understands it. He uses the pace of dialogue to reflect this; when the dialogue is slow there is a sense of confusion and when there is stichomythia there is a sense of confidence and control, even though this accompanied by exhaustion. He also highlights the absolute hopelessness of humanity, our complete dependence and the fact that we are completely at the mercy of others. The stichomythia used when Estragon and Vladimir are discussing what to do if Godot does not come that day is characterised by a sense of confidence as Estragon affirms that they’ll “come back tomorrow.” The lack of an adverb that evokes doubt shows how Estragon feels in control, he has made a decision and has not even considered his ability to fulfil what he has decided upon. This line is very ironic as later on in the scene both of the characters cannot remember anything; they cannot remember what day it is, what they did yesterday, what day they were meant to meet with Godot. Their complete self-assurance which is accentuated by the fast pace of their speech, the fact that they know what they are going to say and do not need to consider the answer to each other’s statements for long, juxtaposes with their complete lack of knowledge and overall has a quite humorous effect. The reader can however not help feeling extremely sorry for them, we pity them for their complete confusion, their lack of knowledge and ability to progress.