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101 Word Short Stories

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Found in Translation

December 7, 2015 9 Comments

Found In Translation

By Carl "Papa" Palmer

She rises, waves her hand as something is broadcast on the table radio. Motions for me to listen as she turns up the volume knob. On holiday in her country, I am not at all fluent with her native tongue. No trace of comprehension as I stare between her and the lighted radio dial. Turning the volume back down, she repeats slowly, distinctly. The same words are heard, yet still I fail to understand their meaning. She tunes the dial to an English-speaking station. I hear the report. Paris is under terrorist attack. Our tears speak a language we both understand.

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Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. ADDISON PLAYER says

    December 7, 2015 at 9:45 am

    That I can actually taking place a thousand times.

    Reply
  2. Anna Jefferson says

    December 7, 2015 at 10:22 am

    True Wonderful words

    Reply
  3. TISA GARRISON says

    December 7, 2015 at 11:24 am

    Beautiful with the intimacy you portray so well.

    Reply
    • Christina Butcher says

      December 7, 2015 at 2:30 pm

      You’re dead on, I think the intimacy that comes across here is what makes it so sad and lovely

      Reply
      • carlpapapalmer says

        December 23, 2015 at 4:54 pm

        Thanks, Christina, fellow Tacoma poet

        Reply
  4. rayboysan says

    December 7, 2015 at 12:41 pm

    “Found in Translation” is a very moving poem by Carl “Papa” Palmer! It is a poem we can all relate to.

    Reply
  5. Kerry Hunter says

    December 7, 2015 at 4:39 pm

    Sometimes it’s sad having a birthday on this day. Your words touched a lot of hearts for those who remember this day 74 years ago or personal stories told in a million ways.

    Reply
    • carlpapapalmer says

      December 23, 2015 at 8:41 pm

      Thanks, Kerry Lynn, HAPPY BIRTHDAY

      Reply
  6. Bobby Warner says

    December 10, 2015 at 3:01 pm

    A very touching and timely story!

    Reply

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