Quizzical

Summary

The author reflects on the nuanced expression of raising a single eyebrow, a gesture often associated with enigmatic characters in literature and now observed in their spouse.

Abstract

The article titled "Quizzical: A Haiku about Nuance" delves into the subtle art of non-verbal communication, specifically the act of raising a single eyebrow. The author reminisces about the romantic novels from their college days, where heroes would perform this gesture, and draws a parallel to their spouse's current habit of doing the same when intrigued or uncertain. Despite the spouse not fitting the mold of a brooding hero, this shared mannerism adds a touch of endearment and mystery to their relationship. The piece concludes with a quote from Sir Walter Scott on discretion and a nod to the authors Dennett and Tracy Aston for their role in publishing the story. The author also invites readers to explore other works, including a spooky short story and a Haiku inspired by their garden.

Opinions

The author finds the gesture of raising a single eyebrow to be a charming and enigmatic trait, reminiscent of romantic literary heroes.
The spouse's ability to raise an eyebrow, akin to the fictional characters,

A Haiku about Nuance

Between the question

And the answer, the lift of

A single eyebrow.

All the romances I read in college featured brooding, enigmatic heroes who “quizzically” raised a single eyebrow.

And now hubby does this when he’s intrigued by a question. Or when he’s not sure how to answer.

He may not be the darkly brooding kind. And after all these years together, it’s hard for hubby to remain an enigma. But at least he raises a single eyebrow.

My hero!

Sir Walter Scott, novelist and poet, said it best: “Discretion is being able to raise your eyebrow instead of your voice.”

Thanks to Dennett and Tracy Aston for publishing my story.

And thank you for reading! If you liked this piece, you might enjoy this spooky short story:

Or this Haiku from my garden:

Quizzical

A Haiku about Nuance

Penumbra — A Tale of Two Shadows

A spooktober story

Painting

Haiku from my garden