Deaf Nomenclature Poem by Bernard Henrie

The grammar she uses is pointing.
Slow motion, like spilling olive oil.

A habit, I suppose.

I didn’t take it down, but something
like this:

The tide of evening on the oblong chair
and dark magazines. I like what you do,
no need to ask.

I lean close to listen.

Instrumental theme; no need for words,
your eyes can read.

The grammar she uses is pointing:

hands and arms blowing, blowing
in oversize sleeves.

Mellifluous, slow motion, olive oil.