On Speaking

People say (and assume) that the function of speech is to communicate. And yet it is very common that people will talk to animals, which are incapable of understanding or response, and aloud to themselves, which is redundant (though undeniably satisfying). Listening to conversations, one notes this same intent-to-speak-without-caring-to-actually-convey-information. How often do people speak without expecting, wanting, or waiting for a response? These very words, addressed to no one, why do I say them?