«She always said, "Hey, it's Joan." Her voice carried a husk and registered as mid-range contralto. I'd ask her if her hair was up or down and whether or not she was wearing her glasses. She'd say "Up" or "Down" and "Yes" or "No" with a swoopy inflection. It always pulled tears out of me. I never told her this. I was grateful for every small kindness she showed me. My gratitude remains in Joan's long-standing absence.»
The Hilliker Curse - My Pursuit of Women
