The Interpreter

Everyone says she's not a gossip.
but
She repeats everything she hears.
Blatantly, in front of the whole world.

Everyone says she's not a gossip.
but
Nothing is ever said without
her repeating it to them.

Everyone says she's not a gossip.
but
She tells them what others have said.
She doesn't miss a word.

Everyone says she's not a gossip.
but
The moment a speaker begins,
Her lips move expressively.
She talks with her hands, tirelessly.

Everyone says she's not a gossip.
because
What she hears with her ears,
They hear with their eyes.

Through her articulate fingers,
Through her nimble, soundless lips,
The words come home to them.

by John Gilder