Joan said something I couldn't hear and so I leaned forward slightly, pushing the back of my ear in her direction. I am short, as I said I'd put on a few pounds, and the gesture made me feel suddenly both mincing and doddering, as if I should have a pince nez dangling from wherever they dangle from, as if I should leave as soon as possible.

––The Seattle Review, Vol. XXII, No. 2, p. 139