Do You Hear What I Hear?

After a minor accident, a senior man finds that his hearing has multiplied manyfold. He hears everyday things - like clocks, dogs, and lawn mowers - very loudly. He seeks medical attention from his doctor friend, who proposes sending him to an ear, nose, and throat specialist. Unfortunately, he will have to wait for an appointment. The man tries to go to calm, quiet places and do calm, quiet things. No luck. Soon, with an ENT appointment secured for the next day, he heads to the park for some peace. He grows even more worried when he seems to hear animals talking. . . about taking over the world. Unfortunately for him, they know he can hear them. When he returns home to rest, his own dog savagely attacks him. Later that night, when his doctor friend comes home, he is uncharacteristically attacked by his tabby cat. With the man cleaning his scratches, the cat sits and purrs.