DEAR ABBY: Will you please publish this letter? It's about my wife. She talks too much.
My job requires me to bring work home. Our house needs a lot of attention, too. When I try to work, my wife is always there with a steady stream of questions or trivial conversation. When I sit down to read, I read in minute-and-a-half blocks of time because I know she will interrupt me. Even when she isn't in the room, I can hear her talking, yelling or complaining in a tone that can't be ignored. I suppose I should feel grateful that she wants to talk to me. But Abby, the truth is, I need my peace and quiet.
I have tried to discuss this with her, but it only upsets her. When I talk, she usually interrupts. What's ironic is that a woman she works with has the same habit -- and my wife complains about HER. This may seem funny, but my job is slipping and our house looks like heck. -- NO PEACE IN SAN DIEGO
DEAR NO PEACE: It doesn't sound funny to me. Your wife is a compulsive talker. Since she ignores your needs and becomes defensive when you try to discuss it with her, the situation can only degenerate. Couples counseling might help you get the message across.
Until then, consider a work area where you can concentrate -- preferably a room with a lock on the door.