The New Yorker Radio Hour
The Poet John Lee Clark’s “How to Communicate” Brings DeafBlind Experience to the Page
Jan 2, 2024
DeafBlind poet John Lee Clark discusses his collection of essays and translations, his advocacy for Protactile, and the importance of image representation. He reflects on his experience growing up in a Deaf family and his attitude towards critics. The podcast also explores the complexity of disability and admiration, and includes production updates.
26:47
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Quick takeaways
- Protactile language emphasizes the significance of touch in deaf blind communication, often overlooked by sighted and hearing people.
- The deaf blind community develops their own approaches and connections, creating a unique and vibrant culture.
Deep dives
The Importance of Touch in Protactile Language for Deaf Blind People
John Lee Clark, a deaf blind poet, discusses the significance of touch in Protactile language, which is used by deaf blind individuals to communicate. He emphasizes that touch is often overlooked by sighted and hearing people, but plays a crucial role in deaf blind communication. Clark shares a poem called 'Clamour' that highlights the power of touch and the intimate connection it creates. He also explains that Protactile communication happens entirely on the body and involves rapid-fire taps, squeezes, hand shapes, and presses. Clark reflects on his own journey as a deaf blind person and how he navigates the balance between his deaf and blind identities.
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