Speechless

The anatomy of a human function we use every day becomes unrecognizable when removed from the body. To see our voice box, enlarged and materialized is to unfamiliarize it with our own body. All but one of the vocal cords, represented with guitar stings, are restrained. Leaving a sole string that a viewer can pluck, physically intervening to create noise. This piece was derived from fighting the culture of silence among women, shame and distrust make it impossible to speak, despite knowing this will alleviate the pain you feel. If only someone could reach out and say it for you. My brain screams the words I rehearsed over and over again. Just say it, what’s so hard, you are safe, say the words. My mouth gapes open but nothing comes out. Not even a noise to cut the silence is produced, nothing to start the conversation. I am unable or unwilling but what’s the difference at this point?