The Music Of Dolphins

Mila begins to feel frustrated by the researchers’ repetitive questions, which force her to define words and identify objects.

She tells Sandy what a pool is, describing it as an unpleasant place to swim. Mila distinguishes a pool from the ocean by calling the latter a “big home.”

Mila overhears Justin talking to Dr. Beck. Afterward, Dr. Beck brings in a tape recording of whale sounds, which both confuses and excites Mila. She invites Justin to listen to the whale sounds with her, but he shakes his head “no” and leaves.

Sandy explains to Mila that she must go home to visit her family because her father is sick. Mila starts asking questions about family, and whether she has a family in Sandy and Dr. Beck. Sandy tells Mila that she does but explains that there are other kinds of families too. Mila understands what she means, and in turn begins asking whether she can see her “dolphin family” again. Dr. Beck’s only answer for Mila is “perhaps.”