Interpreter

Mom’s hearing has been damaged, though we’re not sure how or why. We’re hoping it’s a temporary condition, perhaps resulting from the swelling in her jaw. Due to his Parkinsons, Dad speaks in a whisper, when he’s able to put words together at all. So, as you can imagine, communication is difficult.

Dad tries to speak. Mom appears to ignore him, though she really can’t hear him. Mom starts speaking at the same time Dad is trying to say something, which stops his train of thought and confuses him.

So here I am serving as interpreter. I hold up a hand for Mom to be quiet as I lean close to try to hear what Dad is saying. After he gets his thought out, I shout it at Mom. This is great material for a dark comedy. If Harold Pinter hasn’t already written this play, perhaps I will.

Sue