“A conversation was had; not a word was spoken”

“A conversation was had; not a word was spoken” – is a representation of non-verbal communication and its significance in various American subcultures.  The title describes moments of unspoken cultural understanding and agreement.  Many people remember their subway ride in New York City the day after Trump was elected (exactly one year from the Good Mourning America opening, November 9th 2016).  There was a strange silence on the train that morning and everyone understood why without having to utter a sentence.  A somber glance, a shaking of the head, a wrinkle in the forehead – were all the words used in conversation that morning.  

Non-verbal communication is a custom in the African-American community, manifesting in both social and professional settings.  The head nod and “pound” are small examples which illustrate moments of nonverbal cultural acknowledgment between unacquainted black professionals in a corporate environment.