The Irony of “How I Learned to Drive”
The title implies that the play is exclusively about Li’l Bit acquiring skills. However, In between the driving, she get intimate with Peck who kisses her breasts : “Peck bows his head as if praying. But he is kissing her nipple. Li’l Bit, eyes still closed, rears back her head on the leather Buick car seat.” Therefore, Peck exploits the driving lessons to demand for sexual favors from Li’l Bit. The sexual acts are not alluded to in the title.
The Irony of Peck’s Intimacy with Li’l Bit
The “Female Greek Chorus” alludes to the blood relationship between Peck and Li’l Bit: “(As Mother) And when you were born, you were so tiny that you fit in Uncle Peck’s outstretched hand.” Therefore, Peck is expected to be a father figure and not Li’l Bit's lover. Their ironic romance depicts the existences of pedophiles in families who exploit children who they are supported to guide and nurture.
