AustLit

Much in this plain Jane's life dances around tables. I lean across them, cappuccino between fingers, to discuss all manner of things with friends. Gossip, some call it. Sharing talk. That's an adult act of compliancy, spelling faith and measuring trust in humanity. Cappuccino embroiders the moment of observed truth - as long as it is an agreed truth. It does nothing for differing opinions. Or for stories that refuse to conform to perceptions of normality. Homogeneity is a national credo that stills many tongues. But if you care to lean forward to hear this Jane breathing, you will hear another voice insist that people are cruel to the ones who suffer the pain and distress and alarm that makes them different. It was at tables she worked that out. For me. To protect me from Death...

(Source: Informit)