Language for the Eye Dorothy Miles: Dorothy Jean Miles, a name synonymous with groundbreaking work in Deaf poetry and advocacy, left an indelible mark on the world of language, art, and culture. Born on October 29, 1937, in Holywell, Flintshire, North Wales, Dorothy’s early life was shaped by her loving family and the unfortunate circumstance that led to her becoming Deaf. Contracting cerebrospinal meningitis at the tender age of eight, Dorothy faced a world of silence that many would find isolating. Yet, she transformed this challenge into an opportunity to bridge the gap between the Deaf and hearing communities through her innovative work in poetry and performance.
Google Doodle celebrating Dorothy Miles
On a special day in 2024, Google honored Dorothy Miles, a trailblazer in the Deaf community, with a dedicated Google Doodle. This Doodle celebrated her remarkable contributions as a poet, performer, and advocate for Deaf culture. Illustrated by deaf American guest artist Youmee Lee, the Doodle vividly captured the essence of Dorothy’s work, particularly her famous poem “Language for the Eye.”
Dorothy Miles’ Early Life and Education
Dorothy was the youngest of five surviving children in a close-knit family. Her parents, Stella and Horace Miles, fostered an environment filled with love, creativity, and intellectual curiosity. Dorothy’s sister, Gwenda, fondly remembered the day Dorothy was born, recalling it as a moment filled with joy and expectation. Despite the hardships that followed her illness, Dorothy’s early childhood home remained a source of inspiration, nurturing her love for music, poetry, and drama.
After losing her hearing, Dorothy attended the Royal School for the Deaf in the UK, where she excelled academically and developed a passion for the dramatic arts. Her talent and determination led her to win a scholarship to Gallaudet University in Washington D.C., an institution renowned for its support of the Deaf community. At Gallaudet, Dorothy’s involvement in the dramatic arts blossomed, setting the stage for her future contributions to both Deaf and hearing audiences.
The Birth of “Language for the Eye”
Dorothy Miles is perhaps best known for her pioneering work in developing what she called the “Language for the Eye.” This concept stemmed from her unique ability to create poetry that could be experienced through both spoken language and sign language. Her poem, “Language for the Eye,” encapsulates this duality, inviting audiences to visualize words through gestures and signs.
In her poem, Dorothy writes:
“Hold a tree in the palm of your hand,
or topple it with a crash.
Sail a boat on finger waves,
or sink it with a splash.
From your fingertips see a frog leap,
at a passing butterfly.
The word becomes the picture in the language for the eye.”
This poem is a testament to Dorothy’s belief that language transcends the spoken word. By integrating American Sign Language (ASL) and British Sign Language (BSL) into her poetry, Dorothy allowed both Deaf and hearing audiences to experience her work in a way that was previously unimaginable.
Dorothy Miles Career and Contributions
Dorothy’s career took off when she joined the newly founded U.S. National Theatre of the Deaf after graduating from Gallaudet University. Her dynamic performances and expressive use of sign language brought her widespread acclaim, helping to elevate the art of Deaf poetry to new heights. Dorothy’s work with the National Theatre not only showcased her talent but also emphasized the importance of accessibility in the arts.
In 1977, Dorothy returned to the UK, where she began working for the British Deaf Association (BDA). Her contributions to the BDA were invaluable, particularly in the development of the BDA dictionary and a guide for BSL tutors. Dorothy’s efforts ensured that future generations of Deaf individuals would have access to comprehensive resources to learn and teach sign language.
One of Dorothy’s most significant works is her play, “Trouble’s Just Beginning: A Play of Our Own,” which highlighted the experiences and struggles of the Deaf community. This play, along with her other literary works, including “Gestures: Poetry in Sign Language” and “British Sign Language: A Beginner’s Guide,” cemented her legacy as a formidable poet, playwright, and advocate for the Deaf community.
A Cultural Icon
In recognition of her immense contributions to the Deaf community and the arts, the Dorothy Miles Cultural Centre was established in 1992. This center later evolved into Dot Sign Language, an organization dedicated to advocating for the connection between the Deaf and hearing worlds. Dorothy’s work continues to inspire countless individuals, and her legacy is honored through initiatives like the “purple plaque” placed on her former home in Rhyl, Wales, in April 2024.
Dorothy Miles passed away on June 16, 2024, at the age of 86, leaving behind a rich legacy that continues to influence both Deaf and hearing communities. Her work serves as a reminder of the power of language in all its forms and the importance of inclusivity in the arts.
Where Was Dorothy Miles Born?
Dorothy Miles was born in Holywell, Flintshire, North Wales, on October 29, 1937. Her early years in this serene town, surrounded by a loving family, laid the foundation for her creative endeavors. Despite the challenges she faced after becoming Deaf, Dorothy’s birthplace remained a symbol of her resilience and determination.
Dorothy Miles Obituary
The news of Dorothy Miles’ passing on June 16, 2024, was met with an outpouring of grief from the Deaf and hearing communities alike. Dorothy’s obituary celebrated her life as a trailblazer in Deaf poetry, a passionate advocate for the Deaf community, and a beloved aunt who left an indelible mark on everyone who knew her. Her contributions to the world of poetry and sign language will continue to be celebrated for generations to come.
Dorothy Miles Poems
Dorothy Miles’ poems are more than just words on a page; they are a bridge between the Deaf and hearing worlds. Her ability to craft poetry that could be experienced through both sight and sound revolutionized the way we think about language and communication. Dorothy’s most famous poems, including “Language for the Eye” and “Gestures,” remain powerful examples of her innovative approach to poetry.
Conclusion
Dorothy Miles was not only a poet and performer but also a pioneer who transformed the way we understand language. Her work continues to resonate with audiences today, reminding us of the importance of inclusivity and the beauty of language in all its forms.