I have a question to ask. One regarding a sensitive topic. I ask it with the utmost consideration for those whom this service supports, so please bear with me. But, have you ever watched the person interpreting speeches for the hearing impaired? They use some gusto when they sign.

For example: consider this recent statement by Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers declaring an executive order to hold an upcoming primary election as mail-in voting only:

This has to be the visual equivalent of peppering common language with F bombs. Look at her facial expressions. So bold. So over-the-top in a glorious way. I mean this is like having Samuel L. Jackson do your signing for you isn’t it? Feel that passion. It’s almost as if she’s yelling and she’s not making a sound.

I notice this with almost every signer. Strong facial expressions. It’s almost like, if this was handled with subtitles instead, every sentence would end with a couple exclamation points. I’m going to go get my toast! And another cup of coffee!!

They’re probably slipping in a few good side jokes about the speaker and virtually no one will ever know. The signer gets the last laugh. I mean, it’s what I’d do if I knew how to sign. Those facial expressions could stand for “Hey Tony, nice hair! Who’s your stylist, Ken Burns?” How would we know?

Power. Rage. Disgust. All about simple subjects made crystal clear with a few emotive facial expressions.