Star Words: Episode VI, Part 40

[matril]

Back on the forest moon, matters are grim indeed for the Rebel strike team. They are forced outside at blaster-point only to be met with that entire legion the Emperor was just boasting about, not to mention towering walkers with weapons aimed directly at their heads.

Then a familiar voice calls for attention. I say, over there! Were you looking for me? What in the world is Threepio thinking, drawing attention to himself? He's never been much for subterfuge, has he? But maybe he's developed a skill for that alongside a newfound gift for telling stories, because as soon as the troopers go to capture the droids...

"We surrender!"

Which is, in fact, a statement that signals the very opposite of surrender. At Threepio's words, the hidden Ewok allies emerge and attack. I just find it delightful that those particular terms are used to begin the battle.

Yes, they're hopelessly outnumbered and outmatched, but the element of surprise can go a long way. Especially when everyone keeps underestimating you. The Empire only sees things in terms of brute strength and tangible powers rather than the indomitable strength of courage, defending your own home, and protecting others. It's still a desperate battle, but the tide has begun to shift.

Next, more from Threepio...

Comments

[krpalmer]

While I'd interpreted this scene as "Threepio doing what Artoo told him to" from a line just previous, I can also see now how he doesn't have to be "altogether taken by surprise" either, which might bring this moment a bit closer to the one in Episode IV where Threepio bluffs his way out of the Death Star docking bay control room. I actually started thinking of Mike Klimo's "Star Wars Ring Theory" and a comment recalled from it about identifying resonances between The Phantom Menace and Return of the Jedi, which brought to mind Jar Jar's casual surrender to last out a tricky moment.

[matril]

That's a good point about Threepio's ploy from the first film, as well as Jar Jar's surrender. It deepens the theme of arrogant enemies being defeated because they underestimate their apparently helpless foes.