Short Story Hearing Aids by Roddy Doyle
8 snips
Oct 20, 2023 
Roddy Doyle, the celebrated author behind The Commitments and Booker Prize winner Paddy Clarke Ha Ha Ha, shares a newly commissioned story read by actor Liam Carney. They delve into the comedic yet touching experiences of an elderly couple dealing with hearing aids, highlighting their evolving communication and relationship. The discussion also explores themes of spontaneity versus routine as they take an adventurous stroll through Dublin, reminding listeners of the joys and challenges of love and aging.
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Hearing Reveals Relationship Patterns
- New hearing aids reveal hidden dynamics in long relationships by changing what one partner hears alone.
- Barry and Donna realize they've been shouting for years because Barry had been quietly losing his hearing.
The Loud TV And A New Ritual
- Barry discovers the television has been ludicrously loud and Donna suggests they may have "shared" the problem.
- Their teasing "Volume, Jerry!" becomes a small ritual to reset old habits and acknowledge change.
Asymmetric Hearing Changes Power
- Hearing only through the aids gives Barry asymmetric access to information, altering power and perception between them.
- That asymmetry makes Donna feel ignored even when Barry technically hears more than before.