In an earlier episode, we discussed visual signals used in deafening environments such as sawmills. One signal, developed in a textile mill, was holding up both hands, fingertips up and palms out, miming a gesture of pushing. That pushing motion translated to, of course, “The boss,” as in “The boss is coming, so look sharp!” This is part of a complete episode.
Transcript of “Textile Mill Signs”
We were talking earlier about the language that’s evolved in loud industrial situations.
Where people are working out sometimes.
Like sawmills in places like that.
Yeah, sawmills, textile mills.
In this one particular textile mill, the word for boss was this pushing motion with the hands.
I just really appreciate that.
Because they’re pushing you to work or because you want to push them into a machine?
I think because they’re pushing you to work.
I’m sure in newsrooms it would be the sign for editor.
Yeah, yeah.
I could see that.
