The Difficulty In Hearing When Listening Is Required

Summary

In a conversation between two friends, one confronts the other about a perceived slight related to colorism, leading to a tense exchange over misunderstandings and assumptions.

Abstract

The narrative unfolds as the protagonist, in the midst of a conversation with Marcia, attempts to clarify a misunderstanding. The protagonist is reacting to an overheard comment where they were referred to as a "panther," initially believed to be a reference to their eye color. Marcia, however, jumps to the conclusion that the comment is related to colorism and challenges the protagonist, who denies being unaware of such issues. The protagonist's nonchalant response to Marcia's questioning about their reaction to the comment further escalates the tension, as Marcia seems to be looking for a more confrontational stance from her friend. The story captures the complexity of interpreting and reacting to potentially charged comments, highlighting the importance of emotional intelligence and clear communication in friendships.

Opinions

The protagonist is irritated by Marcia's assumption that they are unaware of colorism.
Marcia appears to be dramatic and quick to assume negative intent, as indicated by her reaction and the way she tosses her blonde highlights.
The protagonist feels the need to assert their awareness and does not appreciate Marcia's line of questioning.
The protagonist's decision not to respond to the "panther" comment suggests a preference for avoiding unnecessary conflict.
Marcia's suspicion and the way she smacks her lips after tasting the champagne imply a level of skepticism or judgment towards the protagonist's explanation.
The protagonist's nonverbal cues, such as surveying a photo of their mother and missing their thumb toward their chest, indicate a search for patience and a desire to clarify their position without escalating the situation.

Jumping to conclusions

“Marcia, I am not…” I exhale.

“What? You are not what? Are you unaware of colorism?” she huffs dramatically, complete with blonde highlights tossing about like dandelion fluff.

Her comment hangs, the champagne bottle sweats, and I stare at my oldest and dearest friend.

She returns a glare accented with a round of diaphragmatic breathing but does not drone an additional word.

I step further into my space, survey a photo of my Mother long enough for any venom or vinegar to seep from my pores, then state, “I am not referring to you.”

I crane my neck left and right, searching for the emotional intelligence necessary to refrain from verbally swatting the bee buzzing up Marcia’s ass.

I missile my thumb toward the center of my breastbone and add, “I overheard someone refer to me as a panther,” then partially fill one of the two glasses.

I fill the second glass, take it from Marcia and continue, “At the time, I assumed the person was referring to the color of my eyes.”

Marcia takes a suspicious swig, then smacks her lips like a pink gourami.

“This is good,” she compliments with her little finger extended.

I take a sip, and toss, “Agree,” in her direction.

“What was your response?” challenges Marcia with an askew eyebrow zagging across half of her forehead.

“To someone referring to me as a panther? Not a f’ing word, Marcia,” I reply with enough nonchalance to convey irritation in her line of questioning.

Her eyes follow when I pivot, ambulate a few feet, and take a seat.

I take a greedy guzzle and watch when steam begins to percolate from Marcia’s.

#7 of 100 Stories

The Difficulty In Hearing When Listening Is Required

Jumping to conclusions