Chapter 5 Finding the Wavelength: Tools in Communication with Autistic Children1

Listening is a complex art. A few years ago, there was a series of letters in The Times on the subject of blackbirds and their song. Here is one from 14 June 2000:

Sir – Blackbirds are joyful in May and sing in A major. In July, they are content and sing in F major.

I've waited 68 years to say this, Beethoven's Seventh and Sixth Symphonies supporting my theory.

Sincerely, D. F. Clarke.

The writer is clearly a good listener and seems to like listening. Here is a rather different attitude toward listening, this one by Fernando Pessoa (1981).