Some might think I talk a lot less living on my own. Maybe I do, but it seems otherwise to me. I constantly ask questions of myself and the inanimate objects within the room.
And I have full-blown conversations through the window with the birds, the cats and the occasional rat crossing the lawn. The conversation comes from giving voice to their responses, and then commencing a debate on the points raised.
With every choice, there is a decision to be made, and the pros and cons are duly listed. Shouting answers at the TV helps to remind me of my ageing self.
When it comes to reading, I will mostly be silent, until my comprehension starts failing me, and then I will virtually spell things out to myself.
Every piece of writing requires at least one voice edit, and sometimes, there are many of those, each one expanding on the last.
When I venture out to the rare social event, someone will ask how I am. I usually respond with “Fine, thanks.”, and then remain silent until safely back home.
Fraser
August 2023